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.
With the recent reports that Charles Tillman is going to test the free agent market, what do you think is the likelihood that he will be back with the Bears next season?
Norm A.
Fort Myers, Florida
I've received several emails about a story that appeared on NFL.com this past Saturday discussing Charles Tillman's future. It basically said that Tillman will explore his options in free agency, but also conceded that he might return to the Bears. It included Tillman quotes from when he met with the media Dec. 30, one day after the team's season-ending loss to the Packers. The story also speculated that Tillman "might" reunite with Lovie Smith in Tampa. When you think about it, Tillman "might" do a lot of things. To me, there was nothing in that story you could draw any conclusions about at all. The fact is that Tillman is due to become a free agent March 11 and could hit the open market. He also could re-sign with the Bears before that point. We'll just have to wait and see. The Bears don't publically discuss contracts, but Tillman said last week during an appearance on WGN-TV News that "there's been a little bit of dialogue" between the two sides.
What are the Bears' records for passing and rushing touchdowns in a season?
Jeff M.
Boston, Massachusetts
Erik Kramer holds the passing record with 29 touchdowns in 1995. The rushing mark was set by Gale Sayers with 14 TDs in 1965 and matched by Walter Payton in 1977 and 1979.
I really took notice of Matt Blanchard when he was on the Bears practice squad and looked forward to watching him in the preseason. If the Bears don't re-sign Josh McCown, could Blanchard be a possible backup next year?
Mandy H.
Clinton, Wisconsin
Even if the Bears don't re-sign Josh McCown—and I imagine they certainly would want to after how well he performed when called upon in 2013—I wouldn't expect Matt Blanchard to contend for the No. 2 spot behind Jay Cutler. Blanchard has promise, but I can't see the Bears going with someone with such little NFL experience in that important role. Besides, Blanchard signed a reserve/future contract with the Panthers after joining Carolina's practice squad last October.
