Bears, Cutler Agree to Seven-Year Deal

The biggest question heading into the offseason for the Chicago Bears was answered today when the organization agreed to a seven-year deal with quarterback Jay Cutler. The deal is reportedly worth $126 million, with roughly $54 million guaranteed. In other words, the Bears have potentially locked up their franchise starting quarterback for $18 million a year through the 2020 season. In addition, the $54 million guaranteed means that Cutler will likely be in a Bears uniform for at least three seasons. I say that because it is important to remember that since NFL contracts are not guaranteed, the Bears can choose to release Cutler at any time. At age 30, it would probably be a surprise to see Cutler finish out his new contract with the Bears, but the opportunity is there if Cutler continues to flourish under Marc Trestman’s offense.

Overall, this is a deal that the Bears needed to get done. The list of potential free agent quarterbacks is extremely weak, and it is doubtful the Bears would be able to draft an elite prospect this season. Personally, I was hoping that Cutler would agree to a four or five year deal with less guaranteed money, but the Bears went to seven years to help stretch out the salary cap hit. As mentioned above, the Bears can always decide to part ways with Cutler if he doesn’t perform well, or if they were to draft and develop a quarterback over the next few seasons.

The bottom line is that the Bears offense is in position to win now and letting Cutler walk would have been foolish. The weapons are there, the system is effective, and Cutler has a good relationship with the coaching staff. The Bears can win a Super Bowl with the offense they currently have. Now they need to fix the defense.

-Eric Tichelbaut

Follow me on Twitter @etichel07