NFL Rumors: Jay Cutler Getting Ready To Depart Chicago Bears

Oct 14, 2016 10:40 AM EDT

So far, Jay Cutler is still injured and will most likely not be returning to the field with the rest of the Chicago Bears anytime soon. But according to new reports, even after he fully recovers, this could be his last season with the team.

Cutler has been missing in action ever since Week 2 after injuring his thumb during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Since then, backup QB Brian Hoyer has been taking care of the passing duties for the Bears.

For a starting QB who was forced to sit on the bench earlier on in the season, Cutler has been pretty laidback regarding his current status. This, of course, can certainly endanger his tenure with the Chicago franchise, which is looking to make significant changes to its roster especially since it now has four losses under its belt.

As noted by Jason Cole of Bleacher Report, Cutler calm demeanor could be related to his attitude with his present career with the team. According to Cole, a source who claims to have inside knowledge in Cutler's career noted that the veteran quarterback is very open to leaving the team.

But, it is not yet clear if this will happen this year or next offseason.

"A source close to Cutler indicated even if he doesn't get his job back, a divorce from the Bears may not be the worse outcome," Cole said in a video. "Cutler would like to stay in Chicago but is also open to the idea of playing elsewhere for the remainder of his career."

Given the way Hoyer is leading the team, the Bears will most likely do whatever they can to retain Cutler as their starting QB. But then again, this will depend on his condition. As previously noted by medical experts, his thumb injury is pretty serious especially for a quarterback since it could ultimately affect his throwing ability.

If Cutler's condition doesn't improve this year, then the Bears will most likely let him leave. The problem, however, is that other teams may not be too interested in signing a QB who has a problem making passes. If this happens, then Cutler could end up considering an early retirement.