Bears QB Jay Cutler gets a contract extension

The Chicago Bears gave QB Jay Cutler a two-year extension worth $30 million extra dollars, and more importantly $20 million in guaranteed money. The extension comes two days after Cutler threw two picks in a Bears loss to Atlanta on Sunday night. With the possibility of a lockout in 2011, Cutler and his agent, Bus Cook, decided to secure some guaranteed money by getting a new deal. With the new contract, Cutler will make around $50 million over the next five years.

This move may seem a bit premature, but I think it shows the Bears are standing behind the best player to ever Quarterback this very old franchise. Cutler has shown his arm, accuracy and talent throughout his time in Denver and it has carried over to Chicago.

Cutler struggled in his Bears debut in Green Bay, but has settled down since, taking less risks and completing over 68% of his passes, something new for a Bears QB.

Cutler is a great talent, but the Bears need to bring in a better offensive line to protect him. He has been sacked 10 times this season, compared to all of 11 times last year in Denver. Olin Kreutz and Orlando Pace are past their prime, Frank Omiyale isn’t good, Roberto Garza is ok and Chris Williams is playing his first full season in the NFL. They can’t pass or run block well, and I’m afraid Jay will get killed one of these games (Baltimore/Minnesota).

The Bears have other needs (WR, DT, S, CB) to address before they become a serious Superbowl contender, but locking up a young franchise QB is one way to keep you in the argument each year.

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