Bears Made Right Move in Acquiring Cutler
Bears Trade Draft Picks and Orton for Disgruntled Denver Quarterback
You have to wonder what head coach of the Denver Broncos' Josh McDaniels is thinking right now. Not only does the first year head coach have various holes to fill on the defensive side of the ball, he will now have to teach a different quarterback how to run his style of offense.
The Broncos dealt quarterback Jay Cutler, a man who threw for over 4000 yards a year ago, because of a dispute between the head coach and quarterback that could not be rectified.
Chicago Bound
The Chicago Bears were the beneficiary of the Cutler sweepstakes. The Bears acquired the quarterback for a hefty price. The trade, which was finalized earlier this month, was two first round draft picks (this year's first round pick and next year's) a third round draft choice and quarterback Kyle Orton for Cutler.
There are critics who believe it was too much to give up. Whether you agree or disagree, the opportunity to acquire a 'franchise' quarterback doesn't come around too often.
At 25 years of age, Cutler has the resume teams are looking for. Cutler has the strong accurate arm and the ability to find open recievers under duress.
But there were concerns about Cutler. According to FOX 31, the Denver flagship television station, Josina Anderson reported late last month that a source told her McDaniels was intent on trading Cutler for Matt Cassel (who was later traded to Kansas City) because of concerns about Cutler's alcohol consumption (given his diabetes) and that "he's not that (football) sharp." "That scared the crap out of McDaniels,” the source told Anderson.
Whether you believe the report or not, there were 'red flags' attached to the quarterback. But the Bears went ahead and traded for him anyway.
Did the Bears Give Up Too Much?
The Bears head coach Lovie Smith along with general manager Jerry Angelo have officially put themselves on the chopping block.
If this trade does not work out, the Bears will really be in trouble. It's not like this team doesn't have holes.
There are issues to their offensive line. The team signed 33-year old lineman Orlando Pace, formerly of the St. Louis Rams. But can the oft-injured lineman stay healthy for a full season? There are also issues at wide receiver. Devin Hester has evolved into a legitimate target. But is he a number one wideout? At this point, no. Considering two years ago, he was playing a different position.
It Was the Right Move
Despite the holes in their starting lineup, you have to give credit where credit is due. The Bears addressed an issue that has been hounding this franchise for years. They officially have a legit starting quarterback to build around.
It's not like Cutler is at or near the end of his career. To be quite honest, it's only beginning. Add a few weapons around him and the Bears will benefit for years to come.
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