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.
How much input do you think Jay Cutler will have when it comes to Marc Trestman's offense?
Randy G.
Batavia, Illinois
I'm not sure I can quantify it, but based on my recent interview with Montreal Alouettes quarterback Anthony Calvillo, I think that Jay Cutler will definitely have some input with the new Bears offense. Calvillo told me that shortly after Marc Trestman was hired as Alouettes head coach in 2008, he met with some of the team's veterans and utilized their input in devising the offense. I'm not saying that Trestman will design the offense based on what Cutler tells him, but it's important for a coach to know what his quarterback feels comfortable with and also what plays he doesn't like to run.
Now that Rod Marinelli has moved on and Mel Tucker will be in charge of the Bears defense, what changes in the scheme do you anticipate for next season?
Lloyd
Carterville, Illinois
It's really too early to say. Mel Tucker needs to go through the process of familiarizing himself with the personnel on the Bears defense in terms of what they do best. Plus, I haven't gotten a chance yet to talk to him or even meet him. I was told that all the coaches will be back in the office on Monday following the Senior Bowl, so hopefully I'll get an opportunity to chat with him then. I also understand that the coaches will speak with the media sometime in the next few weeks, so we'll know a lot more about what the Bears are planning to do on defense at that point.
Will the Bears be allowed more time for OTAs, minicamps, padded practices and training camp because they have a new head coach this year?
Scott M.
Chicago
The only extra practice time afforded teams with new head coaches is an additional minicamp that must take place after April 1 according to the NFL's new Collective Bargaining Agreement. We'll let you know as soon as that is scheduled and of course provide complete coverage of it.
