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.
Who do you think is the most exciting Bears player currently on the roster?
Paul J.
Franklin Park, Illinois
Interesting question, Paul. If you're talking about a player who keeps me on the edge of my seat, who is capable of scoring every time he touches the ball and can make extraordinary plays, I'll go with Tarik Cohen. I think he checks all of those boxes. He's incredibly explosive with the ball in his hands. He reminds me a bit of Devin Hester in terms of his game-breaking ability. I really enjoy watching Cohen on offense and returning punts. You never know what he's going to do and it's usually very exciting.
Can we expect the same caliber of defense under Chuck Pagano as we experienced last season?
From @mfriend67 on Twitter
Given Chuck Pagano's experience and the talent returning on defense, there's no reason the unit should take a step back this season, barring a rash of injuries. Pagano coached with former coordinator Vic Fangio with the Ravens in 2008-09, so some of their concepts and perhaps even some of their terminology are likely similar. The most important factor to me is that the Bears return 10 of 11 starters from the unit that led the NFL in several key categories last season. The only new starter is safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, who is motivated to revert to the form he displayed in 2016 when he was voted to the Pro Bowl after recording five interceptions with the Packers.
What do you think will be the best position battle in training camp?
Dan R.
Harwood Heights, Illinois
The Bears are deep at receiver and the competition for reps will be intense in training camp and the preseason. But three or four of the wideouts will likely become regular contributors on offense. In terms of a position where only one player is on the field, I'd say that the battle for the nickel back job between veteran Buster Skrine and rookie sixth-round draft pick Duke Shelley will be an intriguing one to watch when the pads come on in Bourbonnais. Both players have impressed me with their tight coverage and ability to break up passes in OTA practices.
