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 the favorite to replace Marquess Wilson as the Bears' third receiver?
From Austin G. on Twitter
I don't think anyone has really separated himself from the rest of the field in the competition to replace the injured Marquess Wilson as the Bears' third receiver. Eric Weems, Josh Morgan and Micheal Spurlock have all been getting a lot of reps in practice. Chris Williams is also in the mix, but he missed a second straight day of practice Monday with a hamstring injury he sustained in Friday night's preseason opener against the Eagles. Williams certainly helped his cause with a 73-yard touchdown reception versus Philadelphia, but he's going to need to get back on the field and continue to develop. If I had to pick one player at this point, I would probably go with Morgan, primarily because he's the most experienced NFL receiver of the group. But the competition is far from over after only one preseason game. It should be pretty obvious heading into the preseason finale in a few weeks who will serve as the No. 3 receiver at the outset of the season. But for now we'll have to wait to see how it plays out.
With his performance against the Eagles, did Jimmy Clausen supplant Jordan Palmer as the Bears' No. 2 quarterback behind Jay Cutler?
From Johnny R. on Twitter
The Bears won't adjust their depth chart at this point, so I wouldn't say that Jimmy Clausen has become their No. 2 quarterback. But I certainly wouldn't be surprised if he comes in to replace Jay Cutler Thursday night against the Jaguars with Jordan Palmer following him. The Bears want to create a level playing field in the competition for the backup quarterback position, and Palmer worked with the No. 2 offense in the preseason opener. I'd say the same situation applies at other positions in the preseason as well; don't make any assumptions if a new player is working with a different unit because it's just part of the team's ongoing evaluation process.
Who is winning the competition for middle linebacker, Jon Bostic or D.J. Williams?
From Mr. LoneHill on Twitter
It's pretty much a dead heat at this point. Both players are listed as co-starters on the depth chart and likely will remain that way until the preseason is over. Jon Bostic is probably better in pass coverage and possesses more athleticism, while D.J. Williams boasts an incredibly high football IQ and is very tough against the run. I actually wouldn't be surprised if they split reps during the season with Williams playing on most run downs and Bostic replacing him in passing situations.
