While it seems improbable, the Chicago Bears could have a potential quarterback controversy brewing on their hands. Jay Cutler has been in and out of the lineup with injuries this season and backup Josh McCown has stepped up as a worthy replacement. So what happens when Cutler is ready to return in the midst of a final push for playoffs? Marc Trestman could have one of the biggest decision of his coaching career on his hands.
McCown is no slouch of a backup quarterback. In place of Cutler he has fared well. Most recently, the quarterback put up 216 yards and a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens with a 61.3 completion percentage. As a starter, he has a 60.4 completion percentage with five touchdowns on the season and zero interceptions. McCown is excelling in Trestman's quarterback-friendly offense and has earned the right to be considered a long-term starter.
CBSSports.com is reporting the Bears will consider giving McCown a serious look, making Cutler's future with the team appear a bit muddy. It is well known that Cutler is in the final year of his contract after Chicago opted not to give him an extension in the offseason. Upon first listen it feels unlikely that the Bears would not bring back a quarterback on the verge of being a franchise player, but after deciding not to renew his contract sooner rather than later, it is certainly not out of the question.
It is tough to compare McCown and Cutler given the limited sample size. This season in eight games, Cutler is completing 63 percent of his passes with 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He has once again struggled with durability, missing games for both a groin injury and ankle sprain. McCown stepped in on Sunday after a long storm delay and brought the Bears back from a 10-0 deficit to win the game against the defending Super Bowl champs.
The issue for the Bears will likely come down to whether or not it is smart to sign Cutler to a franchise-size contract or keep McCown for cheaper and invest the saved money elsewhere. The Bears could follow the mold the Patriots set with Matt Cassel and franchise Cutler, extend McCown and then attempt to trade the starter while drafting a rookie. Confusing, yes, but there is no doubting Trestman can mold a rookie quarterback with time.
Everything regarding Cutler is mere speculation right now. If McCown continues to have the hot hand, it is not out of the question to think he continues on as the starter. If Trestman opts to insert Cutler back as the starter and he plays just fine throughout the remaining games of the year, then a contract extension seems to be the next step. However, do not rule out anything at this point. Having a successful backup always makes things interesting.
