Where Does Cutler Go Now?

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There have been very few players as polarizing as Jay Cutler in recent professional sports. I wrote an article almost exactly two years ago “The Perception of Jay Cutler,” in which a defense of his character was made. And quite well, may I add.

Jay Cutler’s run with the Chicago Bears looks like it may very well be at its end. After eight years with the Bears, Cutler has cemented himself as the franchise’s most storied quarterback, holding fourteen team records (including passing yards, passing touchdowns and quarterback rating). Even with that, Bears fans (and for some strange reason even non-Bears fans) have an issue with Cutler. The whole “he” hasn’t won anything conversation is laughable for all those millennials and lazy sports writers who have made “wins” an actual stat for quarterbacks – no matter what kind of condition a franchise is in. Cutler played for a Bears team that actually had guys like Johnny Knox and Devin Hester running routes for him at one point. Yikes.

But this isn’t a piece to further defend a guy who has been incorrectly vilified in his career, this is to predict possible landing spots for the 33-year-old gunslinger. Keeping in mind that the Bears will most likely cut him before finding a trading partner for him.

1- New York Jets – This is almost too obvious. If the Jets decide to not part ways with wide receiver Brandon Marshall, reuniting these “bickering brothers” may be something to look into. Marshall has referred to Cutler as his brother numerous times even when they blow up at each other publicly. With that being said, the Jets are usually in the business of lying to themselves and believing they have a chance to get into the playoffs. Teams that believe that bring in veterans who are looking for one more run at a good price. Cutler would get killed by the New York media, but it’s a good thing that he really doesn’t care what you say about him. . . like, ever.

2- Miami Dolphins – Yeah, Ryan Tannehill is still there. So what? Reports had come in Miami last season that head coach Adam Gase was growing increasingly frustrated with Tannehill as the season progressed. Tannehill’s numbers are smoke in mirrors and he still looks like a guy learning how to play the position. Gase is a “Cutler guy” and they worked great together in Chicago but this would be a touchy situation to get into and would involve the Dolphins giving up on the young guy to roll with the injury prone older guy. . .

3- Denver Broncos – This would be a best case scenario for Cutler. He would go back to where his career started and would have a playoff contender right off the bat. With the receiving talents there just being left out to dry, they would welcome a guy like Cutler who can sling the rock. Cutler wouldn’t have to try too hard to beat out Trevor Siemian for the starting job but Elway definitely wouldn’t look to break the bank for Cutler either.

4- Retirement – Jay Cutler has taken a beating over his career — physically and mentally. He has made a lot of money, has three kids with a beautiful wife and usually makes his way doing charity work (especially with youth diabetes). Cutler has made it known that he wanted to end his career as a Bear, which you’ve got to believe was his goal since getting traded to Chicago. However, money and opportunity can still be offered for this veteran. Aside from personal opinions – Cutler is still a starting quarterback in this league – but at a certain point, a man has to consider his options and his health. If he is satisfied with it all, nobody can judge him for that.

G.W. Gras

twitter @GeeSteelio