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Cutler’s Tired Relationship with Chicago

By Frank Sumrall

Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Destiny Vaeao (97) makes Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) fumble the ball during the second half at Soldier Field. The Eagles won 29-14. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Destiny Vaeao (97) makes Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) fumble the ball during the second half at Soldier Field. The Eagles won 29-14. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jay Cutler’s tenure with the Chicago Bears could be coming to an end after a tumultuous yet comatose 8-year stint.

After a rocky Monday Night game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Jay Cutler’s day ended with a thumb injury that will sideline him for two to three weeks.

Despite a small two-week sample size, Cutler’s quarterback rating is the lowest of his career at 75.7 while his interception percentage rate is the second-highest in his career at 4.3%.

Opposite of Stafford thriving without offensive crutches, Cutler has failed to prove himself to carry an offense. Brandon Marshall is having a renaissance in New York alongside Chicago teammate Matt Forte. Martellus Bennett also booked it to New England to work with Tom Brady.

Chicago is still a talented team offensively but Cutler is forced to carry the load and through two games, he has failed to do so tremendously. Chicago ranks 31st in total offense while Jay Cutler ranks in the bottom 10 of active quarterbacks for most stats.

There have been quality teams in Chicago since Cutler’s first day in Soldier Field in 2009 but his 50-49 career record as a Bear says otherwise.

It hasn’t all been bad under Cutler. He guided the Bears to the NFC Conference championship game in his second season in Chicago. Unfortunately, the game is famously remembered for Cutler leaving the game with an MCL sprain and not forcing his way back in the game.

But since that playoff run, the Bears have fallen flat. They have not made the playoffs since while every other team in the division has at least twice.

Now it is time for Chicago to rebuild and Cutler is the wrong man for the job. Mediocrity will only ensue for the Bears.

Alshon Jeffrey, Kevin White, and (hopefully) Jeremy Langford are great pieces to build an up and coming team on the offensive side. The defense remains an issue but this team is years away from contending for a playoff spot.

Cutler’s seven-year, 126 million dollar contract extension signed in early 2014 remains a huge hurdle for Chicago to conquer as trading him would take a lot of maneuvering. It is a story that writes itself with a contract stunting team growth.

More from Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler will go down as Chicago’s greatest quarterback in team history. But is that because of Cutler’s statistical achievements or Chicago’s lack of talent in the position?

The biggest turning point with Cutler’s future came on Monday night. Rookie quarterback Carson Wentz posted 29 points against the defense behind his 190 yard, one touchdown game. Wentz’ passer rating was 86.6 compared to Cutler’s 74.9. Outdueled by the rookie, Chicago should look at grooming a new future franchise quarterback.

There will be a future home for Cutler in the league, but it is time for Chicago to move on and begin a full rebuild instead of riding their mediocre ship until Cutler hits 37, when his massive contract is up.

Brian Hoyer will try to guide the Chicago Bears to their first win against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday Night.

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