Chalk Talk: Who is longest tenured Bears player?

[Staley Da Bear]

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.


With Sherrick McManis an unsigned free agent, who is now the Bears' longest tenured player?
Alan B.
Illinois


With veteran special teams standout Sherrick McManis a free agent, 2014 draft picks Pat O'Donnell and Charles Leno Jr. are the two longest tenured player on the Bears roster—as well as the only two players who were acquired before Ryan Pace became general manager in 2015. O'Donnell, a punter from Miami, was selected in the sixth round, while Leno, a tackle from Boise State, was chosen in the seventh round. Cornerback Kyle Fuller was also part of the Bears' 2014 draft class, picked 14th overall in the first round, but he was released a few days ago. McManis, by the way, was acquired in a 2012 trade with the Texans in exchange for fullback Tyler Clutts.


Which players have left the Bears in free agency so far this offseason?
Ryan C.
Wadsworth, Illinois


Four Bears players whose contracts expired have joined other teams: Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (Bills), defensive ends Roy Robertson-Harris (Jaguars) and Brent Urban (Cowboys) and outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo (Falcons). Cornerback Kyle Fuller signed with the Broncos after being released by the Bears. Remaining Bears unrestricted free agents include running back/return specialist Cordarrelle Patterson, receiver/return specialist Dwayne Harris, tackle Jason Spriggs, tight end Demetrius Harris, defensive tackles John Jenkins and Daniel McCullers, cornerback Artie Burns and safeties Tashaun Gipson Sr., DeAndre Houston-Carson and Sherrick McManis.


When will the NFL schedule be released?
Paul K.
Monmouth, New Jersey


Sports Business Journal reported earlier this month that the NFL is expected to release its 2021 regular-season schedule the second week of May. One reason for the delay—the schedule is usually announced in mid-April—is that the league has to determine whether a 17th game is going to be added this season. The Bears are waiting to find out dates and times, but they already know their opponents. In addition to home and road games against NFC North rivals the Packers, Vikings and Lions, they're slated to host the Cardinals, 49ers, Ravens, Bengals and Giants, and visit the Rams, Seahawks, Browns, Steelers and Buccaneers.


Chalk Talk features fan questions multiple times each week. Email your question to Larry.