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.
Who do you think improved their draft stock the most at the NFL Combine?
Paul K.
Dayton, Ohio
The first player that comes to my mind is Connecticut safety Obi Melifonwu. At 6-4, he has rare size for a safety as well as incredible athleticism. He impressed me last month while practicing on the North team at the Senior Bowl that was coached by the Bears. At the Combine, Melifonwu ran the fastest 40 time of any of the safeties and had the best vertical jump and broad jump of any player regardless of position. Other prospects who I believe improved their draft stock were Washington receiver John Ross, who set a Combine record with a 4.22 in the 40; Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey, who showed his explosiveness in drills; and Temple linebacker Haason Reddick, who displayed his athleticism and versatility.
Do you think there's any scenario where Texas A&M outside linebacker Myles Garrett is still on the board when the Bears pick at No. 3?
John A.
Duluth, Minnesota
I would be very surprised if the Cleveland Browns don't select Myles Garrett with the first pick in the draft. He was already considered the top prospect in this year's class heading into the NFL Combine and he only cemented that spot with an impressive performance in drills and tests. In the unlikely event the Browns take a pass on Garrett, I'm sure the San Francisco 49ers would love to grab him at No. 2. I really don't see a scenario where he drops to No. 3, but that would certainly be great for the Bears if they had an opportunity to draft him.
I've heard this draft is loaded with running backs. Is there any talk about the Bears drafting one?
Neil A.
Portland, Oregon
Running back is probably the deepest position on the Bears roster with Jordan Howard, Jeremy Langford and Ka'Deem Carey, all of whom are young players who remain under contract. Given that all three have similar running styles, I imagine that if the Bears do select a running back in the draft (or sign one in free agency) they would look to add a small, quick, third-down type who can catch passes out of the backfield and maybe contribute in the return game.
