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'm very excited about the addition of inside linebackers Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman this offseason. What are your expectations for them this year?
Ray S.
Midlothian, Illinois
I expect inside linebackers Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman to solidify the middle of the Bears defense against both the run and the pass. Both of them are instinctive, athletic and fast and also play with a chip on their shoulder after entering the NFL as a sixth-round draft pick (Trevathan) and undrafted free agent (Freeman). I know that the Bears really like the confidence, leadership and attitude that both bring to the defense and have high expectations for the two veterans this year. I think we're going to see a lot more tackles at or near the line of scrimmage by the inside linebackers than we have in recent seasons.
How many members of the 1985 Bears defense made the Pro Bowl?
Allen M.
Natchez, Mississippi
Five of the Bears' 11 defensive starters in 1985 made the Pro Bowl that season: Ends Richard Dent and Dan Hampton, linebackers Mike Singletary and Otis Wilson, and safety Dave Duerson. Three others were voted to the Pro Bowl in different seasons with the Bears: Tackle Steve McMichael, linebacker Wilber Marshall and safety Gary Fencik. The only three regular starters on the 1985 defense who never made a Pro Bowl were tackle William Perry and cornerbacks Leslie Frazier and Mike Richardson.
Who is an under-the-radar player who could make a name for himself in training camp?
Roger T.
Wauconda, Illinois
One possibility is undrafted rookie cornerback Taveze Calhoun, who impressed me during offseason workouts. The competition is wide open in the secondary and he could make an impact. The 6-1, 180-pounder was a three-year starter at Mississippi State, where he recorded 161 tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss, six interceptions, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
