Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
Where are the Bears ranked in strength of schedule for the 2018 season?
Raymond G.
Lake Villa, Illinois
Based on the 2017 records of their 2018 opponents, the Bears are tied for the eighth most difficult schedule in the NFL next year, facing teams that compiled a 133-123 mark this past season, a .520 winning percentage. The Packers have the toughest schedule, playing opponents that went a combined 138-118, a .539 winning percentage. Next season the Bears will host the Vikings (13-3), Lions (9-7), Packers (7-9), Rams (11-5), Seahawks (9-7). Patriots (13-3), Jets (5-11) and Buccaneers (5-11) while visiting the Vikings (13-3), Lions (9-7), Packers (7-9), Cardinals (8-8), 49ers (6-10), Bills (9-7), Dolphins (6-10) and Giants (3-13).
I enjoyed the photo gallery showing the top 10 Bears players who have the same last name as a U.S. President. What's the total number of Bears players with the name of a President?
Tom J.
Indiana
It surprised me a bit when I researched the topic, but there have been 78 players in Bears history who share the same last name as a U.S. President. For those of you who missed it, my top 10 consisted of: 1) Roosevelt Taylor; 2) Otis Wilson; 3) Ted Washington; 4) Noah Jackson; 5) Vestee Jackson; 6) Eddie Jackson; 7) Anthony Adams; 8) Jeremy Lincoln; 9) Marty Carter and 10) Todd Johnson. There have been 20 Bears players named Johnson, 11 Taylors, eight Wilsons and seven Jacksons. Safety Eddie Jackson is the only Bears player on the current roster with the same last name as a U.S. President.
Who have been the last 10 players selected with the eighth pick in the draft (that belongs to the Bears this year)?
Roger T.
Lombard, Illinois
The last 10 players picked in the No. 8 spot are running back Christian McCaffrey by the Panthers in 2017, tackle Jack Conklin by the Titans in 2016, defensive end Vic Beasley by the Falcons in 2015, cornerback Justin Gilbert by the Browns in 2014, receiver Tavon Austin by the Rams in 2013, quarterback Ryan Tannehill by the Dolphins in 2012, quarterback Jake Locker by the Titans in 2011, linebacker Rolando McClain by the Raiders in 2010, tackle Eugene Monroe by the Jaguars in 2009 and defensive end Derrick Harvey by the Jaguars in 2008.
