Not wasting anytime, the Chicago Bears have resigned their quarterback. Earlier today the Bears announced they signed Jay Cutler to a seven year deal which would make him the only player with a contract in 2020 currently in the NFL.
It has been a rocky season for the quarterback. He missed four games this season after suffering a torn groin. During that time, backup quarterback Josh McCown performed well and many thought the Bears would not want to pay Cutler’s high price tag and would instead stick with McCown. Clearly that was not how the team felt as they immediately made Cutler their starter when he was healthy enough to play.
General manager Phil Emery explained it was the leadership and “display of toughness” that led to the organization’s decision to stick with their quarterback. Cutler only has one win in the playoffs which is very disappointing considering the talent the Bears have on offense. While, their struggles this year can mostly be blamed on their defense, their offense is one of the most talented in the NFL with two of the best receivers in the league.
However, looking at the quarterbacks who will be free agents this season, Michael Vick, Curtis Painter, Josh Freeman, and Colt McCoy to name a few, it is clear Cutler was their best option. The length of this contract, however, is what should worry most Chicago fans. No one wants seven more years of no playoff appearances. In a division with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers, it is more likely the Bears would have to win a Wild Card spot to make the playoffs in a stacked NFC conference. The Bears also announced they resigned cornerback Tim Jennings and guard Matt Slauson to four year deals. Both of which are much more cautious and smarter deals.
