Chicago Bears: Draft Buzz proving Cutler decision correct

Nov 26, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) drops back to pass against the Green Bay Packers during the second half for a NFL game on Thanksgiving at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

For a long time, Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace and head coach John Fox were questioned at length about their decision to maintain quarterback Jay Cutler as the starter.

Though he posted some his best numbers with the team in 2014, he also led the league in turnovers (24).  By that point most felt he’d peaked and wasn’t going to get any better.

That is why cries were loud on finding a replacement.  However, it’s never that easy.  Word was Pace and the brass explored every option, even trying to trade up in the draft this past April to have a shot at Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota.  That was never feasible though.  So the decision was made to stick with Cutler.

Time has proven them wise.  Thanks to the efforts of offensive coordinator Adam Gase and quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains, the 32-year old has experienced a career revival.  In 10 games he’s thrown for 2,510 yards, scored 15 touchdowns with six interceptions.  His quarterback rating of 92.5 will be the highest of his career if he finishes that way.

However, the improved play may not have been the only factor in the decision to keep him.  It’s possible Pace and the front office took a look ahead to the upcoming quarterback class as well.  Based on recent rumblings, the scouting community is not impressed according to Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network.

"“I’d hate to be a team in need of a quarterback. The best two in this draft might end up being from Memphis and North Dakota State and that ought to scare the (expletive) out of you. It takes some courage to turn that card in.” — NFC scout"

Indeed both Paxton Lynch and Carson Wentz are the two names generating the most interest of late and neither is considered “elite.”  Part of drafting a true franchise quarterback is knowing when to pounce and when to be patient.  The Bears know what they have in Cutler which is a better-than-average quarterback.  Teams can win with those when teams have enough talent on the roster.  Ask Jim McMahon, or Trent Dilfer, or Brad Johnson.

Chicago isn’t quite there yet.  Wouldn’t it be better to ride things out with a solid veteran until such time as the roster is strong enough to accommodate a younger arm?  There is plenty of logic to it, and the Bears brass deserve credit for recognizing that.