The Chicago Bears and Jay Cutler are about to be under even more pressure than ever before. After missing out on the playoffs, the quarterback signed a new contract that keeps him in Chicago for the next seven years. After undergoing plenty of criticism with the way he led the team this season and season's past, wide receiver Brandon Marshall is defending Cutler.
While speaking on NFL's "Around The League" Podcast, Marshall defended Cutler after the whirlwind of criticism that was delivered when the quarterback signed a new contract. The Bears had a very promising season in 2013, but once again, mistakes forced them out of the postseason. Marshall believes this is more of a team issue rather than a Cutler issue.
"Because we've been mediocre," said Marshall. "It started in Denver, we were mediocre, we didn't get it done there. They shipped us out, we separated for a little bit. You look at just Jay, he got to Chicago and he hasn't gotten it done."
Marshall is also taking shots at the coaching inconsistencies the Bears have faced over recent years. 2013 was Marc Trestman's first season as head coach. The team has undergone new coordinators and assistants which could play into the struggles. All that aside, Marshall promises to be the best receiver in the game next year in order to help Cutler out.
"Jay has had a different offensive coordinator, has been in a different system almost every year," Marshall said. "He hasn't had Alshon Jeffery, Martellus Bennett. He hasn't had those guys or an offensive line. We went from one of the worst offensive lines a year ago to a top five O-line protecting the quarterback. Now he has that, and then he has (coach) Marc Trestman ... someone who stimulates him every day, challenges him, put him in uncomfortable positions to make him better. Before he got hurt, we saw his numbers on pace to be the best he's ever had."
Marshall is thrilled that Cutler's contract got extended long-term. Now, the wide receiver will likely be able to get his new deal this offseason, something Chicago has intentions of completing. Cutler's contract helps create space to give Marshall his extension now while leaving room for Jeffery's extension next season.
