Chicago Bears: Kyle Long is officially coming out of retirement

Former Chicago Bears offensive guard/tackle Kyle Long is planning to come out of retirement after one season out of the league. This is according to Macon Gunter, who is an insider on the Green Light Podcast, hosted by Kyle’s older brother Chris Long. Kyle Long, 31, made three Pro Bowls during his seven seasons with the team.

Long originally retired on January 6th, 2020 and the team declined his option which made him a free agent despite his retirement. Due to this, Long is free to sign with whomever he desires as he would no longer be under contract.

Long played in 77 games for the Bears during his tenure, making 76 starts. Most of his starts came on the interior of the offensive line. However, he started 16 games at tackle in 2015, and he even made the Pro Bowl.

The Bears, who are planning to release right tackle Bobby Massie, could definitely use Long’s services. With the Jaguars tagging Cam Robinson, Kyle Long’s return replenishes the offensive linemen market which is filled with great veteran talents.

If Chicago wants to bring Kyle Long back, it would take some money. It could also demand a bit of reconciliation. Long has been very outspoken in his criticisms of head coach Matt Nagy and general manager Ryan Pace. Even once saying he would not come back to play for the team under the current staff.

In an early February interview with Matt Zahn of CBS 2 in Chicago, Long praised but also criticized Pace’s draft history.

"“Ryan Pace has hit on some late-round draft picks. Ryan Pace has also missed some fastballs on hitter’s counts,” Long said.Additionally in the interview, Long was asked about still wanting to play.“Everybody still wants to play,” Long said. “Can you still play is the question and I don’t know the answer to that. I may be seeking that answer until the day I die.”"

Recently, Long has said that he still loves Chicago and would love for the fanbase to have a Super Bowl eventually. Long was a fan favorite so bringing him back would be a great move if he can stay healthy.

With the Bears seeming to build a trade package for Russell Wilson, Kyle Long returning to the Bears could be a fantastic signing for the right price. The fans would no doubt love to see it.