The 2014 season could prove challenging for the Chicago Bears. Quarterback Jay Cutler, who is in the final year of his contract, faces a make-or-break year — new head coach Marc Trestman appears to have postponed contract discussions with Cutler, the Chicago Tribune reports.
Cutler's five-year, $49.77 million contract expires after this season. The Bears had talked about signing Cutler to a long-term deal worth around $15 million per season, but the talks stopped in January upon the hiring of Trestman.
In the final year of his deal, Cutler now appears to be auditioning for a new one. The stoppage of the contract discussions suggest Trestman wants to see if Cutler, who has a history of clashing with coaches, can fit into the coach's new West Coast offense. Cutler is known for his cannon of an arm, and it's uncertain how well he can function in an offense that is based on short, accurate passes.
It doesn't help that some believe Cutler no longer has upside. ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski said last week that Cutler has "plateaued" and won't get any better, according to Rotoworld.
Further complicating matters is the bevy of Bears players with expiring contracts. Pro Bowl defensive tackle Henry Melton received the club's franchise tag this season, but his contract situation remains unresolved for next year. Pro Bowl corners Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings also become free agents next season, as does Major Wright and Matt Slauson.
While Cutler is undoubtedly a priority for the Bears, next offseason could prove problematic with number of free agents, a hard salary cap and only one franchise tag. If Cutler has a breakout season in Trestman's system, his price tag will increase. If he doesn't, it leaves Trestman wondering if he really wants to bet his future on Cutler.
The 30-year-old quarterback, however, isn't stirring up headlines by complaining about his situation. He understands he needs to win more games to cement his future in Chicago and reap a big payday.
"You've got to win games to earn those contracts," Cutler said in April, according to NFL.com. "I'm in the last year, obviously. We'll play it out and see how it goes."
*Contract information via Rotoworld.
