Report: Bears bench Jay Cutler; will start Jimmy Clausen on Sunday vs. Lions
The Chicago Bears are set to start quarterback Jimmy Clausen over a struggling Jay Cutler this Sunday against the Detroit Lions, according to multiple reports.
Clausen last started a game in 2010 for the Carolina Panthers. He has a 1-9 record as a starter and a career passer rating of 58.1.
Cutler has under performed during a turbulent season in Chicago. Despite throwing for 3,640 yards and 28 touchdowns, the veteran has tossed a league-leading 18 interceptions and lost six fumbles.
The move still comes as a surprise, as Cutler was signed to a seven-year, $126.7-million contract in January. It could mean that his time in Chicago may come to an end after the season.
Cutler's deal currently contains $38M guaranteed. $22.5M of that has been paid, meaning Chicago wld have to write a $15.5M check to cut him.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) December 18, 2014
Since being traded from the Denver Broncos to Chicago in 2009, Cutler has enjoyed an up-and-down run as the starting quarterback in the Windy City. His play peaked last season when he threw 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions in 11 games.
Playing with a weak offensive line, Cutler has only played a full 16-game season once, during his first season as a Bear in 2009. His erratic, sometimes thoughtless play and lack of talent at varying positions throughout his run, has kept Cutler from reaching the potential that made him an attractive prospect early in his career.
Now, at 31, it seems potential is no longer good enough. The team may attempt to trade him in the offseason or he may be released due to his large price tag. If the Bears decide to keep him, it is likely that a quarterback competition will emerge in training camp.