Chicago Bears’ quarterback Jay Cutler is starting his seventh season in the Windy City. He will be doing so under his fifth offensive coordinator during that span.
When reminded by reporters of this tidbit of information earlier this week, Cutler couldn’t even remember the total amount of offensive coordinators he’s played under since being traded from Denver in 2009.
Is it five? That can’t be good.
Yes, that is not good considering Cutler is the common factor in this equation. As the Bears start their voluntary minicamp, the team’s offense is being led by new coordinator Adam Gase. Cutler also reported that he has known Gase for a “long time” and knows some of his offense.
Speaking highly about his new staff, Cutler poured on the praise.
I think that’s what you notice when you walk in the building with those guys — all the energy they bring. Innovative. Smart. It’s a joy to work with these guys right now.
Fox has a reputation. He knows how to win. They have a blueprint. I think it’s a very talented team at this point and we’re only going to add to it. I’m excited about where we’re going.
It was not that long ago that Cutler’s former head coach Marc Trestman was also receiving praise for improving the Bears’ offense. However, every few seasons there is a turnover in staff that forecasts a better outlook for the team while Cutler remains under center. Whether Cutler will be in the picture come the start of the regular season is questionable. There have been conflicting reports that the Bears want to move on from Cutler and that they plan to stick with their long-time quarterback and his bloated seven-year, $126.7 million contract.
Cutler is the one common equation here. He’s now had five coordinators and three head coaches since joining the team in 2009. Renewed optimism is one thing. Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result is the definition of insanity.
Photo: USA Today Sports