Chicago Bears Mailbag: A path to 10-6 and much more

The Chicago Bears mailbag this week is focused on the future. Both in what the team can do the rest of the season and what could happen in 2019.

This marks the first year since 2013 that a Bears team made it to the halfway mark with a winning record. It’s somewhat uncharted territory for this roster and they are preparing to see whether or not they’re ready to handle it. One thing is for sure. As the winning continues, so will the intrigue of the 2019 offseason and deciding which players may be in line for extensions. So what were some of the questions fans had on their minds?

@JacobVangellow
Who are players that should be offered long-term deals?

As of now the bulk of the focus for long-term extensions next year will be on the secondary. Two names, in particular, stand out. The first is cornerback Bryce Callahan. He seems to have settled nicely into the slot position and has managed to finally stay healthy after years of nagging injuries. The other is safety Adrian Amos. Last year it seemed his time as a starter was over but he got a reprieve and rebounded in a big way. Since then he’s been a solid player.

Outside of them? I’d say Aaron Lynch and Roy Robertson-Harris will also get prime consideration for extensions as well given their contributions to the pass rush.

@joshlopez261
Resign Amos and Callahan?

This is a difficult call because both play a key role in the defense. From a personal perspective, I would make it Callahan. He’s made more plays to this point and is around the ball more often. However, one must maintain a long-term perspective and there one crucial point few haven’t acknowledged. Callahan is 27-years old. Amos is 25. The Bears may decide that keeping the younger player is more desirable. Especially since they secured Callahan as an undrafted free agent.