Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
I haven't heard much in regards to Ryan Poles' draft philosophy. Ryan Pace had his best-player-available attitude, but he reached for a number of players that didn't pan out. We all know that. Have you got anything more specific about Poles' strategy?
Brian M.
Sacramento, California
Yes, I asked Bears general manager Ryan Poles about his draft strategy earlier this month at the NFL Combine, specifically his philosophy on selecting the best player available versus addressing a need. Here's what he had to say: "Generally speaking, you do want to stick with best available. I think that's how you capture value the best on the board. And then if all things are even between four guys and one's in a position that you need and it's a premium position, then you will adjust to that. But you really should have the mindset of best available."
Are the Bears going to receive a compensatory draft pick for hiring Ryan Poles? I thought teams that hire a minority GM or head coach got a pick for that. Does that come next year?
Troy P.
Waterfall, Iowa
The amendment added to the Collective Bargaining Agreement in 2020 to help promote diversity throughout the NFL gives compensatory draft picks to teams that have had a minority employee hired as a general manager or head coach by another club. So, in regard to Ryan Poles, the Chiefs receive the compensatory pick, not the Bears.
I see the Bears continuing to add more players to the roster by signing some veteran free agents. Is there a limit as to how many players teams can have at voluntary workouts, minicamp or training camp?
Alan M.
Evans, Georgia
Before mandatory cutdown deadlines in the weeks leading up to the regular season, NFL teams are permitted to have a maximum of 90 players on their rosters.
Chalk Talk features fan questions multiple times each week. Email your question to Larry.
