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 is a no-name player to watch in camp who could surprise everyone and make the roster?
Don P.
Antioch, Illinois
My unheralded player to keep an eye on in training camp is running back Senorise Perry, who was signed by the Bears as an undrafted free agent after participating in the team's rookie minicamp on a tryout basis. When asked Wednesday about the competition for the No. 2 running back position behind Matt Forte, general manager Phil Emery said that Perry is "just as much in the mix" as Ka'Deem Carey, Michael Ford and Jordan Lynch. Perry possesses good speed and the ability to contribute on special teams, including experience as a kick returner. That versatility should help his chances, but he obviously has to take advantage of his opportunities in the preseason.
Do you know how many defensive ends the Bears are going to keep versus defensive tackles?
Paul N.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
General manager Phil Emery said Wednesday that the Bears will likely keep 9 or 10 defensive linemen this year and the breakdown all depends on how the players perform. So the Bears could keep six ends and four tackles, four ends and six tackles or five of each. Speaking about the defensive line, Emery also said: "We're extremely excited about the competitive balance of that group, the players we've brought in through free agency and the draft, and the street free agents that we've brought in."
I saw that safety Chris Conte will start training camp on the PUP list. Doesn't that mean that he will have to sit out the first six games of the season?
Norm K.
Meridian, Idaho
No. Players who open training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list are eligible to return to practice at any point. However, if a player starts the regular season on the PUP list, he is required to sit out the first six weeks. And as long as we're on the subject, players cannot go on the PUP list after they've practiced in camp, even once.
