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.
Excluding Kevin White, which of last year's draft picks do you feel will have a breakout year?
Neil A.
Portland, Oregon
If I had to pick one 2015 draft pick other than Kevin White, I would select fourth-round running back Jeremy Langford. The Michigan State product had a solid rookie season, rushing for 537 yards and a team-leading six touchdowns as a complementary No. 2 back behind Matt Forte. With the Bears opting not to offer Forte a contract, Langford likely will take over as the starter, possibly teaming with 2016 fifth-round pick Jordan Howard or 2014 fourth-round selection Ka'Deem Carey. In my opinion, Langford possesses big-play ability because of his speed and elusiveness but must work on becoming a more reliable receiver out of the backfield.
We always hear about the celebrity aspect of William Perry's time in Chicago, but is it fair to say he does not get the credit he deserves as a solid defensive player?
Barry
Ireland
William "Refrigerator" Perry became an overnight sensation as a rookie in 1985 after he scored a touchdown and obliterated Packers linebacker George Cumby on a Walter Payton touchdown run in a Monday night win over Green Bay. So, yes, Perry's fame did result from the incredible athleticism he displayed while becoming the world's largest fullback. In terms of your question, I do think he deserves more credit for what he did on defense. The Fridge started 94 games over nine seasons with the Bears and was a key contributor on teams that won four straight NFC Central titles from 1985-88. He was a run-stuffing force in the center of the line who also had some pass-rush ability, recording 28.5 sacks during his time in Chicago. Interestingly, Perry's only success on offense came during his memorable rookie season, which was capped by a touchdown run in Super Bowl XX. After his rookie year, he had just three carries for minus-two yards and no touchdowns the rest of his career with the Bears.
Might any of the remaining Bears free agents (Patrick Omameh, Vladimir Ducasse, Will Montgomery, Alan Ball, Sherrod Martin or Ryan Mundy) still be re-signed or are they definitely gone?
John C.
Wisconsin
It appears that the Bears will move forward without the players you listed. The free agents the Bears chose to re-sign this offseason included Sam Acho, Rob Housler, Alshon Jeffery, Marc Mariani, Sherrick McManis, Zach Miller, Tracy Porter, Chris Prosinski, Jacquizz Rodgers, Mitch Unrein, Nick Becton, Deonte Thompson and Josh Bellamy.
