Bears LB Brian Urlacher was back among his teammates Thursday morning, three days after the death of his mother, Lavoyda Lenard.

And now for a few thoughts, observations and highlights as we wrap up Day 2 of the NFL Scouting Combine.

Bears coach Lovie Smith opened Friday’s chapter of the NFL Scouting Combine by defending his embattled QB, Jay Cutler.

Over the last 48 hours since Jay Cutler disappointed the world, I’ve been completely fascinated by the reaction, overreaction, and reaction to the overreaction brought on by the most talked-about sprained MCL in NFL history.

Before Todd Collins even had time to get pulled in favor of Caleb Hanie, the court of public opinion had already convicted Jay Cutler of having no heart because he was on the sideline with a knee injury.

The Bears knew going in to Week 17 they couldn’t improve their No. 2 seed in the NFC. Still, they played like they had to win the game. It’s a testament to the players and head coach Lovie Smith.

Bears coach Lovie Smith might regret his decision to play his starters against the Packers in Week 17.

Should teams with nothing to gain sit their top starters — particularly quarterbacks — in preparation for the playoffs?

There’s a lengthy list of head coaches who are deserving to be in the conversation as the NFL’s Coach of the Year. Warren Sapp‘s choice is Raheem Morris.

The Bears are the team that no one wants to believe in. Well, when I say no one, that means everyone outside of Chicago, outside of Halas Hall, outside of the true believers.

A quick recap at some of the notable injuries around the league in Week 9.

NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora takes a look at four coaches who he considers to be on the hot seat during or after the season: Marvin Lewis, Mike Singletary, Lovie Smith and Wade Phillips.

After taking in Sunday’s game in Chicago, I think i’s time for the Bears to rethink their strategy about what gives them the best chance to win.

Watching Jay Cutler hung out as a human pinata at the Giants’ sack party on Sunday night was enough to make anyone cringe.

A quick look at some of the stories on the radar on Tuesday.