John Fox has been head coach of the Chicago Bears for all of a few hours but is already being pelted with questions regarding quarterback Jay Cutler. Considering that Cutler has underachieved in Chicago with all of the offensive talent around him, we think those kind of up-front inquiries are more than fair.
Fox dodged each Cutler-related question with the tact of a covert spy, remaining noncommittal on the embattled quarterback's future with the team. He noted that he had not yet spoken to Cutler, and that no decision will be made on him or any other players until Fox has a chance to acquaint himself with them.
"It doesn't matter what players are here, we're going to start that process and I'm not there yet," Fox said.
We did learn that Cutler had sent Fox a text message welcoming him to the team.
"I'm looking forward to getting to know Jay," Fox said. "I just reminded him that this game's only fun when you win, and we will."
Cutler hasn't done a lot of consistent winning in Chicago. The Bears are just 49-47 since they acquired the quarterback via trade in 2009. That's not exactly the stuff that legends are made of.
Fox said he'll be comfortable about the QB position, "whoever it is," leaving the door open for a Cutler replacement to come strolling through. However, an immediate partnership is probably in everyone's best interest, as Cutler has a $15 million guaranteed salary for the 2015 season.
One thing seems clear from Fox's introductory press conference, he won't be afraid to look elsewhere for quarterback help. Cutler isn't his handpicked guy and the QB is already on a hot seat due to his tendency for turning the ball over (18 interceptions last season, three fumbles). Fox may not hesitate to sideline the nine-year veteran if he gets off to a sloppy start.
