Lunch with Larry: Kyle Long

Kyle was a perfect fit for the Bears, selected with the 20th overall pick in the 2013 draft. He recalled that during his pre-draft visit to Halas Hall, he was invited into the office of then-offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer , where only one player was shown the box.

“The cut was just (Lions defensive tackle) Ndamukong Suh,” Long said. “That’s how we looked. I remember sitting there and it hit me, the weight of the moment being like, ‘Ah, I see, this means more than you being a good football player in college. We love it in Chicago.’ He was like, ‘No, no, no, there are monsters out there and we need your help.’ It got really serious.”

He wasted a lot of time providing that help, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of his first three seasons, first at right guard and then right tackle. He learned a lot from veteran players Robert Garza, Matt Slauson, Jermon Bushrod and Eben Britton.

“Going to a group that was heavily loaded with vets was just what we needed,” Kyle said. “Not only was I a rookie behind the eight ball in terms of football experience, but my life experience was very limited. So these guys did a great job and I always appreciate their tutelage.”

Kyle recalls receiving valuable advice on the first day of camp.

“Roberto Garza looked at me after the first day of practice in Bourbonnais and said, ‘How are you feeling, man?’ I said, “I feel good, it hurts a little.” And he says, “Well, this is the best thing you’ll ever feel, so appreciate it.” It was very good advice, not only was it telling me to appreciate my youth, but also to take care of yourself.