Fantasy Upside
Jay Cutler has a lot of positives going for him heading into the 2014 season. He has one of the best receiving duos in football (Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery) to throw to, and he’s in a pass-happy system. Marc Trestman is something a QB guru. He even made Jimmy Clausen look good in the preseason.
In January Cutler signed a seven-year, $127 million contract so there’s no doubt the Bears have confidence in him. There’s a lot to like about the potential of the Bears offense this season.
Fantasy Downside
Cutler missed five games last season due to an ankle injury. Staying healthy could be a concern given Chicago’s offensive line woes. He’s had injury problems in the past, missing 12 games over the last three seasons.
And even with Cutler’s improvement last season, he still didn’t show he’s among the league’s best. His touchdown-interception ratio (19-12) needs to improve for him to be a true QB1.
Bottom Line
The Bears’ slinger has a lot of potential. He’s in a great scheme, with great players and he has great talent. He’s a borderline QB1 this season. If he produces to the level he’s capable of he could be a real steal late in the draft.
His main concerns are staying healthy and committing turnovers. If he can avoid injury and limit his mistakes he’ll make you a happy owner.