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 is leading the competition for the Bears' No. 2 running back position?
Phil T.
Goshen, Indiana
Shaun Draughn opened training camp in that role and hasn't done anything in practice or the first two preseason games to lose it. Draughn rushed for 33 yards on three carries and caught two passes for 12 yards in last Thursday night's win over the Jaguars. On Friday, coach Marc Trestman praised Draughn for his running skills and pass-catching ability. At this point, it's a two-horse race between Draughn and rookie fourth-round pick Ka'Deem Carey. The Bears place a premium on pass-blocking at the running back position, so keep an eye on how those two pick up blitzes in the last two preseason games. Michael Ford isn't completely out of the picture, but he's a rung below Draughn and Carey because he hasn't been as consistent to this point.
Has Ryan Mundy been named a starter yet? He seems to be the Bears' best safety.
Chet S.
Hillside, Illinois
I certainly wouldn't disagree with your assessment, and while the Bears have not yet named their starting safeties, I think it's only a matter of time before Ryan Mundy secures one of the two jobs. Coach Marc Trestman lauded Mundy on Friday for playing well and being in the right place. Asked about Mundy earning a starting spot, Trestman said: "He is in a good position. We're going to wait it out and see what happens here for the next few weeks. But I think he's in a good place."
Will Chris Conte play in the Bears' next preseason game against the Seahawks?
William B.
Tucson, Arizona
The Bears are hopeful that safety Chris Conte will play Friday night in Seattle, but they first must wait to see how he responds to a full week of practice. He only recently returned to action after missing the entire offseason program and the first two-plus weeks of training camp following shoulder surgery. Said coach Marc Trestman: "We want to get him in there. We certainly want to give him a chance to compete. [But] we'll see where he is."
