Although free agent quarterback Jay Cutler said earlier this week that he’s “probably” retired, some NFL clubs reportedly would like to put the veteran quarterback through a workout, according to Mike Freeman of Bleacher Report.
As Freeman notes, NFL clubs have long been enticed by Cutler’s physical talent, especially his proficiency at the act of merely throwing the football. But his recent production has been anything but impressive: last season, he finished 25th in adjusted net yards per attempt, 28th in Total QBR, and 35th among 39 qualifiers in Pro Football Focus‘ quarterback grades while starting 14 games for the Dolphins.
Realistically, it’s difficult to see Cutler landing anything other than a strict backup position, and that opportunity may not come unless a quarterback suffers an injury during training camp or the preseason. At that point, Cutler’s salary demands could also come into play, as he’s certainly not going to earn the $10MM he raked in with Miami in 2017. With a dozen-year pro career in the books, Cutler doesn’t necessarily need the cash, and could simply seek the best fit if he decides to search for a new team.
Speculatively, teams that could use an extra quarterback include the Panthers, Raiders, Rams, Cowboys, and Seahawks. Carolina, specifically, has little to no experienced options behind starter Cam Newton, as none of Garrett Gilbert, Taylor Heinicke, and Kyle Allen have never started an NFL contest. Dallas, too, would be in dire straits if Dak Prescott goes down, as 2017 undrafted free agent Cooper Rush is next on the club’s depth chart.
If Cutler does officially hang up his cleats, he could pursue another avenue within the NFL by taking on a broadcasting role, something he was slated do in 2017 before the Dolphins came calling. He’d already announced his retirement last May and had signed on to join FOX’s NFL team, where he was to enter a three-man booth alongside play-by-play man Kevin Burkhardt and fellow color commentator Charles Davis.
Really hoping to see Cutler doing commentary this year. I think he would be great at it
I tell everyone that I really look forward to Cutler doing commentary. I think the guy is hilarious. My kind of humor… most people think I’m joking but I’m serious. I dislike him as a QB. Burned me several times in fantasy. Over several seasons.
Bucs probs
I have never understood the fascination teams have had for Cutler
He really is the second coming of Jeff George. Million dollar arm ten cent head. Yet he keeps getting chances
I’m glad someone said it so I didn’t have to.
Jay Cutler is out here actively trying so hard to retire but can’t because teams keep throwing $10M at him to not produce at all. I can’t blame the guy for continuing to put on a uniform. But nobody wants to sign Colin Kaepernick who actually wants to play football lol