Chicago Bears: 5 Biggest Regrets from the Past Decade

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CHICAGO, IL – JANUARY 16: Quarterback Jay Cutler #6 of the Chicago Bears talks with offensive coordinator Mike Martz in the second half against the Seattle Seahawks in the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Soldier Field on January 16, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

#2: Firing Mike Martz

Here’s something that people need to understand. Mike Martz wasn’t perfect. He had flaws. His offensive philosophy was dangerous at times for a quarterback and his scheme inflexible, resulting in the trading of Greg Olsen in 2011. That said, the man was a credible mind who knew what he was doing. He’d had a lot of success in the NFL, and he was having success in Chicago.

Jay Cutler was 17-8, threw 36 touchdowns and 23 interceptions with Martz as his coordinator. He had five 4th quarter comebacks in that stretch of 25 games. He was 34-43 with 118 touchdowns and 86 interceptions after Martz left. That included nine 4th quarter comebacks in 61 games. Cutler may not have liked him, but the coach knew how to get a lot out of him.

Lovie Smith not only cost Cutler a chance to really explore how good he could be in that offense, he also set up his own future firing the next year after an offensive swoon late in 2012 cost the Bears a playoff spot.

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