Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of email questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
I know it's been an incredibly disappointing season, but I was wondering how many Bears players do you think will be voted to the Pro Bowl?
Ronald W.
Stockton, California
If I had to take a guess I would say that four Bears will earn Pro Bowl honors. I think that Martellus Bennett should pretty much be a lock. He leads all NFL tight ends with 77 receptions, which is the most in Bears history, breaking Mike Ditka's record of 75 set in 1964. Only four tight ends usually are chosen, so that will make it more difficult. But I think that Bennett will be one of them. I also feel that running back Kyle Long, guard Kyle Long and defensive tackle Stephen Paea will go. It's hard to say, though, and you have to remember that: 1) The squads are no longer chosen by conference; 2) Players who advance to the Super Bowl are not eligible; and 3) Several players traditionally back out of the game with injuries (either real or imagined).
Do you think that rookie quarterback David Fales will be given a chance to play now that he was moved to the 53-man roster? With the Bears out of the playoff race, what could it hurt?
Steven B.
Elmhurst, Illinois
No, I would be very surprised to see David Fales on the field in the final weeks of the season. The Bears elevated him from the practice squad to the 53-man roster in large part to prevent other NFL teams from claiming him. There were reports that the Patriots and Chargers were interested in the Bears' rookie sixth-round draft pick from San Jose State.
Is the addition of fullback Montell Owens a sign that the Bears plan to add a fullback to their offense? I believe that not having a true fullback this season has hurt their running game.
Terrence S.
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
I don't think that Montell Owens will get a whole lot of reps on offense; he was a two-time Pro Bowler as a special teams player with the Jacksonville Jaguars (where he was coached by Bears special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis) and I believe that he will be utilized more in that role over the final three weeks of the season.
