Chicago Bears: 5 Possible Developmental Quarterbacks

Oct 18, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Signs are growing that perhaps the Chicago Bears aren’t so ready to throw away long-time starter Jay Cutler just yet.  Thanks to a new offensive scheme implemented by coordinator Adam Gase, as well as a firm commitment to the run, the 32-year old is playing some of the best football he has since joining the team back in 2009.

This might compel GM Ryan Pace to wait on drafting a young quarterback for the future and focus his early attention in the 2016 draft on other positions of need.  However, there would be another option open to them.  Rather than not take a quarterback at all, they could choose one with physical upside but is not mentally or mechanically ready to play on the NFL level.

The Bears could then stash this youngster behind Cutler and in two or three seasons have their replacement set to go with full knowledge of the offense he’ll run.  It’s a strategy teams have used many times before.

So it’s a route Chicago considers, who are some possible options in the 2016 draft class that would make ideal developmental projects?

Paxton Lynch (Memphis)

At the rate he’s going right now, Memphis quarterback Paxton Lynch could put himself in the 1st round conversation before too long.  That is how well he’s played thus far, ending most recently with his dismantling of SEC power Ole Miss and a 447-yard game against Tulsa. When watching him, it’s clear Lynch suffers from no lack of arm strength, has good size, decent mobility and runs the offense like a pro should.

Keep in mind head coach John Fox drafted Osweiler when he was coaching in Denver.  While that comparison is valid, by watching his throwing motion and seeing the accuracy at all levels of the field, one might view him as a more mobile Philip Rivers.  If Lynch finishes this season the way he began, he’s as good a grab-and-stash prospect as a team could hope for.

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