The Chicago Bears make their first draft pick at No. 7. With a number of changes headed to the team in the offseason, they could go several directions with that pick. The Bears need a solid pass rusher. They could use help in the secondary. They could also use to get an elite linebacker into the mix. However, what happens if Marcus Mariota drops in the draft? Do the Bears take the risk and select a quarterback in the first round?
There is plenty of doubt regarding Jay Cutler. It is no secret that Chicago is sounding less and less committed to the quarterback despite his high-priced contract. While speaking at the NFL scouting combine, new head coach John Fox did not exactly give the quarterback a ringing endorsement for the future, noting that the Bears needed to do a lot of evaluating, especially at the quarterback position.
"We're going to take the full amount of time to gather information, visit and build a relationship," Fox said, via the Chicago Tribune. "Hopefully, [we'll] make the best decision for our organization. I think it's just getting to know him. I think everybody's got perceptions. But I think it's getting to know the guy. This is a relationship business. And that takes time. So I don't want to stand up here and give you a final evaluation when I'm maybe a fourth through the test. ... I don't think there's any question that there's ability and talent there. But there's a lot more that goes into it. And we're evaluating that as we speak."
Fox made it clear the Bears were not on a specific deadline, but cutting the quarterback by a certain date will save the team plenty of money. The Bears have already shown signs of doubt in Cutler by taking a meeting with free agency Josh McCown would could reunite with Chicago and Fox if the money is right. However, what about the draft? As the Bears decide whether or not to cut ties with Cutler, bringing in someone to develop for the future could be the best move to make.
The chances Mariota falls into the lap of Chicago are slim. However, the team could eye quarterbacks like Bryce Petty or Brett Hundley. They could also eye free agency and try to acquire someone like Ryan Mallett or even Nick Foles. Both options could be solid for the future. Chicago must focus on the quarterback spot in the offseason and in the draft. Cutler is on a very short leash and having a solid option to take over for him will be crucial.
