Chicago Bears Mailbag: Chase Daniel as trade bait?

@RossHart17
How much do you think it would cost to keep Howard vs. what kind of trade value do you think he has at think point? With his limited production this year.

At the rate Howard was going coming into the season, he likely would’ve been aiming for a contract somewhere in the $6-7 million per year range. However, his regression this season has likely knocked that price down to the $4-5 million range. At least in the Bears’ eyes. That may not suit Howard or his agent well.

They will feel he can probably do better on the open market in 2020, and with sound reasoning. This puts the Bears in a tough spot. Pay closer to what Howard will want or trade him? The latter will be interesting since his stock isn’t exactly high. However, he’ll be 24-years old and still have a year left on a cheap deal. I’d say that can net a 3rd or 4th rounder from the right team.

@t_garbs
kyle long return this season?

This is where making the playoffs could bring additional benefits for the Bears. If this were another down year, I’d say not a chance. There would be no reason to do it since it benefits nobody. However, with a chance to make a run at a Super Bowl, there’s no doubt that he should be in line to return by that point.

His foot injury was estimated to take 6-8 weeks to heal. Given how cautious this Bears staff is, they’d prefer it be longer. By waiting until the playoffs, it will have taken 10 weeks, two extra to make sure it’s completed healed. Getting a 100% Long back on their offensive line would be a boon for the offense as they prepared to take on the NFC’s finest.