By now everyone knows the true story about why Hanie started last season as the #3 QB. That damn injury led the Bears to bring in Todd Collins (moment of silence...), but before Caleb was hurt he was poised to be #2. Hindsight being 20/20, we now know that Collins was done, and the Bears should have rolled the dice on Hanie all year as Jay Cutler's backup. That is something, his health cooperating, that will not happen again. Hanie will be the #2 in 2011.
Hanie has shown some ability in his limited NFL experience. He has a live arm, he's mobile, and in my opinion he's shown some gumption. He's been solid in preseason, and then of course he had his National coming out party in the tough loss in the NFC Championship game against the Packers.
Earlier today Bucky Brooks of NFL.com wrote about a few backups that he believes can start someday. He mantioned Caleb Hanie.
Hanie opened eyes around the league with his surprising performance against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game. His arm strength rates above average, and he throws the ball with exceptional velocity. Hanie's natural physical skills are also complemented by sound footwork and fundamentals in the pocket. Even though his inexperience will lead to some mistakes in his reads and progressions, his ability to play well against an elite defense in a high-pressure environment will prompt some to take a closer look.
I don't think Bears fans have anything to worry about in terms of Caleb Hanie leaving via free agency (when ever that is), no team will throw #1 QB money at him at this point in his young career, and he'll be a restricted free agent. He'll be back in Chicago next year.