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.
I remember last year there was a lot of talk about the Bears not having permanent captains. What is the situation with team captains this season?
Phil K.
Mundelein, Illinois
Bears players voted for permanent captains this season and the players who were selected are quarterback Jay Cutler and running back Kyle Long on offense; outside linebacker Pernell McPhee and safety Antrel Rolle on defense; and kicker Robbie Gould on special teams.
I know players often change their uniform numbers once the 53-man roster is set. Was that the case with any Bears players?
Ryan B.
Mansfield, Ohio
Yes, there were quite a few players who changed numbers. They include safety Antrel Rolle (from No. 31 to 26), defensive tackle Eddie Goldman (No. 76 to 91), running back Jeremy Langford (No. 36 to 33), cornerback Tracy Porter (No. 25 to 21), safety Jonathan Anderson (No. 44 to 29), linebacker John Timu (No. 57 to 53) and practice squad receiver Jalen Saunders (No, 14 to 18).
Are the Bears honoring former linebacker Doug Buffone this season following his death?
David L.
Midlothian, Illinois
Yes, the Bears will honor the memories of former players Doug Buffone and Mike Pyle via a video tribute about 15 minutes before the start of Sunday's season opener against the Packers. Buffone, who was one of the longest tenured and most popular players in franchise history, died April 20 at the age of 70. He spent his entire NFL career with the Bears, playing 14 seasons from 1966-79, and was known to another generation of fans as a radio analyst. Pyle, a former center, passed away July 29 at the age of 76. He played his entire NFL career with the Bears, appearing in 121 games over nine seasons from 1961-69. In 1963, Pyle helped the Bears win the NFL championship and was voted to the Pro Bowl.
