The Chicago Bears' momentum came to a screeching halt against the San Francisco 49er as the team fell in overtime to see their playoff hopes begin to slip away. The Bears failed to capitalize going up against a weaker team in the 49ers and now must hope that they win out and other cards fall in their favor to get into the postseason. Injuries are not helping the team's case as both Jay Cutler and Martellus Bennett went down with issues.
According to ESPN's Jeff Dickerson, Cutler went through concussion tests after taking a hard sack from safety Jaquiski Tartt. Head coach John Fox confirmed the quarterback was examined for a concussion, but was deemed fine and re-entered the game. Cutler noted that it was certainly a hard hit, but he feels fine now and should be good to go throughout the week.
"He got me pretty good," Cutler said, via ESPN.com. "I got up from the play. We went through the protocol. I had no problems. I talked to the doctors again. I feel fine at this point. I haven't seen the replay, so I don't know [if it should have been penalized]."
Also going down with injuries was Bennett who was re-examined for rib injuries after going down following a six-yard catch. Bennett missed Week 12 for a rib injury and was questionable entering the game against the 49ers. He finished the day with just three catches for 14 yards while Alshon Jeffery and Matt Forte led the way. That has been the story for Bennett all season as the tight end has noted to the media that he is not thrilled about his role in the new offense. That has created reported tension between Bennett and the Bears' front office, something his agent denies beginning true.
"There isn't a riff or any tension, whomever is making these remarks should have the testicular fortitude and stand in front of their statements," Bennett's agent Kennard McGuire said, via NFL.com.
Cutler has stated the same thing saying he has not seen the tight end angry or irritated with the Bears in any way. Chicago will be entering a rebuilding year this offseason as re-tooling the defense is going to be a priority. They will likely be handing out a high-priced contract to Jeffery while deciding whether or not to retain Forte. Bennett is going to be entering the final year of his contract and according to the Chicago Sun Times, he will be mentioned again in trades. The tight end holds a lot of value in the league and the Bears could get a solid return. With Zach Miller likely being the cheaper option to have in the offense, Bennett could be headed out whether he wants to or not.
