Chicago Bears: Biggest 2015 NFL Draft Need
By Erik Lambert
Oct 26, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) looks on from the sideline during the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots won 51-23. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Is it a safety? Is it a linebacker? Logically one would say absolutely regarding the Chicago Bears, but truthfully nobody will admit their real need.
Jay Cutler proving he will never be more than what he is
Yes, it’s true. The Bears handed Jay Cutler a $126 million contract at the beginning of the season. Their reasons for it were obvious. They felt he offered them a better chance to win right away rather than starting over with a rookie. At 3-5 their gamble hasn’t exactly paid off. Despite his upswing in stat production, Cutler is the same old quarterback he’s always been. He has a strong arm, is tough and can make some plays but is guaranteed to turn the ball over at least once in every game and it’s more often than not at the worst possible time. It is so hard to win championships like that. Never mind the ongoing questions regarding his leadership.
Even so the team remains committed to him as the starter, which isn’t a surprise. He still gives them the best chance to win in 2014. As for 2015, that is worth debating. There is no question the Bears have serious needs to continue filling on defense but there comes a time when a team has to make a statement. Chicago has done everything Cutler wanted. They gave him the best receivers, a good enough offensive line, a star running back and still it’s not enough. The excuses have to stop.
No argument said it better than following the horrific loss to New England when somebody stated, “Imagine what Tom Brady would do with those weapons.” Painful for fans but also a truth that can’t be ignored. If placating him isn’t working, then the time has come to push him.
Best Answer To Problem: Connor Cook – QB – Michigan State
Chicago Bears head coach Marc Trestman has said in the past that he wants a quarterback who is accurate and makes good decisions with the football. Connor Cook has been doing that all year and more for Michigan State. Fresh off a Rose Bowl victory in 2013, the junior has his team 7-1 and eyeing a shot at the college football playoffs. Scouts and analysts see a player with the ideal height and size, an NFL-caliber arm and good enough mobility. What sets him apart is his personality. Certainly a leader in the huddle and highly confident. An insatiable will to win.
Those are things many fear may be lacking from Jay Cutler. If so, than Chicago is obligated to fix that problem, even if it means adding Cook in the 2015 NFL draft to either push the 31-year old, or replace him.