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's an under-the-radar player to watch in training camp?
Pete M.
Shorewood, Illinois
One player the Bears are high on who I don't hear a lot of fans or media talking about is tight end Dion Sims. General manager Ryan Pace sees the 6-5, 262-pounder as a big and athletic versatile pass catcher and blocker who will upgrade the position. Sims spent his first four seasons with the Dolphins, catching 74 passes for 699 yards and eight touchdowns in 56 games. Last year he set career highs with 26 receptions and four touchdowns while compiling 256 yards. With Sims, veteran Zach Miller and promising second-round pick Adam Shaheen, the Bears seem to be pretty deep and talented at the tight end position heading into training camp.
Did Matt Forte ever compile 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season?
Chris C.
Marshall Faulk and Roger Craig are the only two players in NFL history who've accomplished that feat. The closest Matt Forte came to joining them during his Bears career was in 2014 when he rushed for 1,038 yards and caught 102 passes for 808 yards. Â
Any thoughts on the new rule allowing for group celebrations? Do you think some of the Bears players will be cooking up something special?
Felix L.
Lemont, Illinois
I'm hoping that Bears players spend more time working on getting into the end zone rather than what they will do once they arrive there. But we could see some entertaining celebrations this year. Knowing how humble and team-oriented Jordan Howard is, I could see him handing the ball to an offensive lineman to spike just like Walter Payton used to do back in the day. As for some of the other players, hopefully they'll come up with some creative ways to celebrate without crossing the line in terms of bad sportsmanship.
