Not much has changed since the offseason for the Bears in terms of their biggest question marks. Once running back Matt Forte's contract got signed, Brian Urlacher's physical condition and the reliability of the offensive line vaulted atop the chart and remain there.
1. Offensive line -- In particular, the left tackle position remains the biggest question mark. Only once in preseason -- against Washington -- did the Bears display an all-around offensive line effort from starters. J'Marcus Webb hasn't proven he can handle the good NFL pass rushers consistently. In most games the offense will be operating in handcuffs because extra backfield or tight end blockers will need to be devoted to protection on the side he blocks. If anything, the line actually became worse as left guard became a quesitonable position, as well. Ironically, after seeing the line's inability to pass block and run block, the Bears cut third QB Josh McCown and went with just Cutler, Jason Campbell and rookie practice squader Matt Blanchard. Hopefully they have McCown on speed dial.
2. Brian Urlacher's knee -- This drama has gone on since last winter, but intensified with the revelation he had to go to Europe and have a non-invasive procedure before geting it scoped. Lovie Smith and Urlacher insist it's going to be full go from the start of practice this week, even though waiting four more days for the Thursday night game at Green Bay seems to make more sense.
3. Aging defense -- Urlacher's injury aside, the concern over age on the defense remains as great as ever. Cornerback Charles Tillman comes off his first Pro Bowl season and had a third preseason game against the Giants to forget. The over-30 club includes Lance Briggs, Urlacher, Julius Pepper and Israel Idonije. Can they remain as effective as in the past? There is a line of thinking that says the offense will be more explosive now and the defense won't have to be as good. When a defense becomes less effective, often the slide from top to bottom becomes very steep and fast in the NFL.
4. Safety -- The question about them coming into camp was inexperience. Now it's health and inexperience. After rookie Brandon Hardin's season-ending neck injury and Chris Conte's shoulder injury, the depth has been challenged. Conte is expected to be ready for the opener. Craig Steltz and Anthony Walters back up Conte and Major Wright. The Bears will need a pass rush to help out this group.
5. Brandon Marshall -- He can be the best wide receiver the Bears have ever had, and teamed with QB Jay Cutler can open up the offense in ways Chicago has never seen. On the other hand, he has also been disruptive and dangerous in the past due to his borderline personality disorder. It appears everything is under control and working in the proper direction, but volatility is the danger with this situation.
Follow Bears reporter Gene Chamberlain on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLCHI.