GM Ryan Pace: Bears Have 'Extreme Confidence' In Jay Cutler
By Chris Emma--
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- There should be no questions about Jay Cutler's future in Chicago going to into this offseason. The Bears are committed to their quarterback.
When Ryan Pace first became the Bears' general manager last year, he inherited a ton of question marks. One of the mysteries was whether Pace would bring Cutler back for the 2015 season. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Adam Gase and quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains, Cutler finished his 15-game season with 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Cutler proved himself as an asset for the Bears' future.
"We're going to continue to build the offense around Jay Cutler," Pace said on Monday in his first press conference since training camp.
The Bears have plenty of needs all around the roster, with the quarterback position proving to be a strength. Pace reiterated multiple times that the team just needs to add playmakers.
Cutler can be considered the centerpiece of the Bears' offense, with Pace adding talent around the position. What happens at quarterback down the road remains to be seen, but the Bears are moving into the 2016 season with Cutler as their quarterback.
"Jay knows we have extreme confidence in him," Pace said.
One of the key variables surrounding Cutler's future in Chicago is the likely departure of Gase, the offensive coordinator who put him in a position to succeed in 2015.
Bears coach John Fox confirmed that three teams -- reportedly the Eagles, Browns and Dolphins -- have requested to interview Gase for their head coaching vacancies. In addressing the uncertainty to his staff, Fox expressed confidence.
"We have a plan in place," Fox said. "Finding good, quality coaches have never been a problem."
Joked Pace: "One of the benefits of John (Fox) being 100 years old is that he knows a lot of coaches."
The Bears now enter a critical offseason for their future, with Pace's job being to solidify talent around the roster. He has nine draft picks, including the 11th slot in the first round, and will have plenty of salary cap flexibility to add on.
On Monday, with 2015 in the past, Pace made it clear that the Bears are moving forward with Cutler as their quarterback.
Chris Emma covers the Chicago sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
