The Chicago Bears put all of those Jay Cutler trade rumors to rest when they opted to keep the quarterback on the roster at the start of the new year when all of his salary in 2016 become guaranteed. Throughout most of the start of the NFL offseason, Cutler's name was popping up in every trade rumor around as most assumed the new coaching and front office regime were ready to rid themselves of the quarterback. However, Cutler remains in Chicago as it is becoming clear the team was not as set on dealing him as many believed.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Bears never actually called any teams about a potential deal for Cutler. It was being reported that Chicago was actively shopping Cutler to quarterback-needy teams, but Rapoport believes they never made the calls to get something done. While speaking on WGN radio, Rapoport said, "Everybody knew Cutler was available for the right price. Everyone's available for the right price. ... And then, honestly, I called every team that could possibly need a quarterback. And I asked them, 'Did the Bears call you?' And I found not one person who would say 'Yes.' What I realized was that the Bears did not actively shop Jay Cutler."
So Cutler stays put on the Bears for at least another two years until the guaranteed money on his contract runs out, but will that stop Chicago from adding depth and his potential replacement to the roster. Making their first pick at No. 7, the Bears are rumored to be selecting Marcus Mariota according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The only way the Bears acquire Mariota is if the former Oregon star falls into their lap. That means the Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins and New York Jets pass on him along with the Philadelphia Eagles opting not to trade up. Chances are slim it happens, but there is still a belief it could.
Most of the trades Chicago has been rumored to be ready to make have not happened and will not happen. The team shocked many by dealing away Brandon Marshall, but running back Matt Forte is there to stay. Many believed the Bears would move Forte as he enters the last year of his contract, but with most teams now set at the position, he will stay.
There could still be an addition at the wide receiver spot after dealing Marshall. The Bears have rising star Alshon Jeffery and added Eddie Royal, but they would be wise to try and get a rookie in the draft or a veteran like Greg Jennings or Reggie Wayne to be a rotational player. Cutler will need all of the weapons he can get.
