Nobody ever said Jay Cutler was perfect. He had a personality that took some getting used to. Some things he did on Sundays for the Chicago Bears caused TVs to get broken by fists, feet and flying projectiles. Nevertheless he exits after eight seasons as the all-time franchise leader in passing yards, touchdowns and regular season wins in the Super Bowl era.
Could it have been better? Sure. The Bears did a poor job of building around him what with the bad offensive lines and the constant upheaval with the coaching staff. At the same time he deserves his share of the blame. He made a lot of poor decisions that resulted in some crippling defeats. His leadership was always called into question.
Even so he was a man respected and loved by many teammates who played with him. Several fans also can’t help but feel sad. They know it could’ve been great had things been different. Instead the Bears have released the 33-year old after eight seasons.
Is he bitter? No. In fact he took time to deliver a letter thanking the team and the city for the opportunity and the memories.
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Jay Cutler's message to Chicago fans: pic.twitter.com/0U4WOTl7pW
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) March 9, 2017
Cutler no doubt will seek an opportunity elsewhere. Early reports are the New York Jets have interest. Still, when his career draws to a close most people will remember him most for his roller coaster ride in Chicago. There were laughs. There were tears. Most of all there was plenty of excitement every time he stepped on the field. He was also a class act, never firing back at those who took shots in the media. Always an active member on the charity front.
He’s a role model that many more celebrated NFL stars are not. Over time his star is sure to rise for the good player but better person he was.
