Could a beloved former Chicago Bears player be eyeing a return?
When Kyle Long announced his retirement for the Chicago Bears, it came with a number of mixed emotions.
On the one hand, it was difficult to see a player who had given his heart and soul to the franchise have to leave the game so soon. Kyle frequently played hurt or through pain during his career — one which did not see much team success. Nevertheless, he was always a professional, and a true gem to root for.
On the other hand, fans were happy to see him ride off into the sunset on his own terms, where he could enjoy his retirement without risking further injury or additional surgeries. In fact, we have all enjoyed watching his exploits in retirement through social media.
However, Bears fans may be experiencing a whole new set of emotions if the latest rumors are to be believed. That’s because Long may be returning to the NFL according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News. But according to the story, it would not be with the beloved Bears, as the story details how the New York Jets have had conversations with Kyle about coming out of retirement.
Long not destined to be a Chicago Bear for life?
This might come as a surprise to many, especially considering Long’s statement about being a “Chicago Bear for life” after being placed on injured reserve in October of 2019. He also tweeted as much in February of 2019 after restructuring his contract.
Earlier today, Rick Tarsitano of WGN News asked Long if there was any truth to the rumors, to which Long responded “no. none.”
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However, it’s interesting to note that just a few days ago Long referenced in a tweet the need to “gain” as in putting on weight, right after trimming down this offseason. Why else would he need to put on more weight if he wasn’t planning a comeback?
While it’s hard to imagine Long in another uniform, his exit from the team was quiet and unceremonial. No one has any idea what transpired at the end of his tenure, but his tweet from May 30 was at least a little curious. It is certainly possible he was referring to fans who considered him a “gutless quiet B word” when he was with the Bears, but his comment that he “won’t be with them again” later in the tweet could certainly be interpreted as him talking about people within the organization.
If Long does suit up with another team next year, Bears fans will no doubt wish him the best and root for his success — but it doesn’t mean it won’t sting.