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.
Why are the Bears drafting last among the four teams that finished 5-11 this season?
Brian P.
Oswego, Illinois
Draft order for teams that finish with the same record is determined by strength of schedule, with the clubs who face the weakest opponents getting the higher pick. The Bears will choose last among the four teams that finished with 5-11 records (at No. 8 overall) because their opponents had the best winning percentage at .559. The Broncos (.492), Jets (.520) and Buccaneers (.555) have the No. 5, 6 and 7 selections, respectively. But the order of teams with the same record rotates every round, so the Bears will pick fifth in the second round.
How many coaches from John Fox's staff have been hired by other NFL teams?
Stan G.
Lake in the Hills, Illinois
According to media reports, former Bears offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains and offensive line coach Jeremiah Washburn have joined the Dolphins; running backs coach Curtis Modkins and receivers coach Zach Azzanni have been hired by the Broncos; and tight ends coach Frank Smith has joined the Raiders.
When was the last time the Bears had a top-10 draft pick for four straight years?
David K.
Zanesville, Ohio
The Bears are slated to pick in the top 10 of the draft for the fourth straight year for the first time since they did so for five years in a row from 1972-76. In those drafts they selected tackle Lionel Antoine at No. 3 in 1972, defensive tackle Wally Chambers at No. 8 in 1973, linebacker Waymond Bryant at No. 4 in 1974, running back Walter Payton at No. 4 in 1975 and tackle Dennis Lick at No. 8 in 1976. The past three years the Bears have chosen receiver Kevin White at No. 7 in 2015, outside linebacker Leonard Floyd at No. 9 in 2016 and quarterback Mitchell Trubisky at No. 2 in 2017.
