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.
Tarik Cohen is one of the most exciting players I've ever seen. Is there a former Bears player he reminds you of? I can't really think of anyone he's comparable to.
Dave A.
Antioch, Illinois
Tarik Cohen is certainly proving to be a very unique player. His long run in overtime Sunday against the Steelers was a thing of beauty. It looked like an all-state running back in high school dominating a lesser opponent, not an NFL rookie against an elite pro defense. When trying to think of a comp for Cohen, no single player comes to mind. To me, he's a combination of Devin Hester and Dennis Gentry with a touch of former Lions running back Barry Sanders thrown in. (I know your question was about former Bears, but I see some Sanders in him.) I'm excited to continue watching some of the plays that Cohen no doubt will make.
When was the last time the Bears blocked a field goal?
Aaron M.
Austin, Texas
Sherrick McManis' blocked field goal Sunday against the Steelers was the first by the Bears since Akiem Hicks blocked Mason Crosby's 31-yard attempt last Oct. 20 in a 26-10 loss to the Packers at Lambeau Field. The Bears haven't returned a blocked field goal for a touchdown since Oct. 1, 1978 when Mike Spivey returned a kick that was blocked by Virgil Livers 71 yards for a touchdown in a 25-19 overtime loss to the Oakland Raiders at Soldier Field.
I thought that Bradley Sowell was an unsung hero in the win over the Steelers, coming into the game after Hroniss Grasu was injured. What can you tell us about Sowell?
Bob S.
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Let's see. Bradley Sowell is 28 years old, he's a Gemini. Just kidding. I mean, that's true, but I'm sure it's not what you're asking about. Sowell signed with the Bears in May after spending his first five NFL seasons with the Colts (2012), Cardinals (2013-15) and Seahawks (2016). He started 12 games for Arizona in 2013 and nine for Seattle last season. Here's what guard Kyle Long had to say about Sowell on Monday: "He's a tough dude and he's fearless. He's a throwback offensive lineman. He can play any number of positions on the offensive line, tackle or guard, and he's done so for us, on short notice, at the drop of a hat. The guy is ready to roll. We're watching film in there and the guy is just getting after it. At the end of plays he's the last one blocking. He's the last one giving that extra shove. We love to have guys like Brad Sowell."
