CHICAGO – Consider this: Questions about the future of Brian Urlacher have lasted longer than the careers of most NFL players.

Urlacher turned 30 years old in May 2008, prompting whispers about whether his best days were behind him. The questions gained volume in 2009, 2010 and 2011 as the Pro Bowl linebacker approached his mid-30s.

Now, as the Bears prepare to report to training camp next week, familiar questions about Urlacher’s age are likely to re-emerge. Those questions will be accompanied by concerns about Urlacher’s left knee, which he sprained in last season’s finale but claims is healthy now.