INDIANAPOLIS -- Chicago Bears general manager Phil Emery usually avoids discussing contract situations, but indicated at the NFL combine the team hopes to bring back veteran offensive tackle Jonathan Scott.
"Looking at Jonathan, he added positively to our group. He helped us win games," Emery said. "At some point, we'll sit with his agents and see if we can't move forward."
Scott joined the team a day after its 2012 season-opening victory over the Indianapolis Colts, and eventually started in seven games of 12 games played for the Bears.
Interestingly, the Bears wanted to start Scott sooner than his Nov. 11 debut in the starting lineup against the Houston Texans because of the struggles at right tackle of Gabe Carimi, who held the position through the first 10 games. Lingering knee issues held up Scott's ascension into the starting lineup initially, as well as the time required in acclimating to the team's offensive system.
A six-year veteran, Scott made most of his starts at right tackle on an offensive line that surrendered 44 sacks last season. In 342 snaps, Scott was flagged for a penalty only once, gave up one sack, five quarterback hits and five pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.
It's doubtful the Bears view Scott as a starter in 2013, but it appears the club would like to bring back the veteran to play the swing tackle role. Scott has started in 35 of his 70 career games.