If Plummer Struggles, Broncos May Look to Cutler

Rookie QB Could Get a Chance

Jay Cutler had an outstanding performance at the Senior Bowl practice week, drastically improving his draft value. Cutler heard his name called with the 11th pick of the draft, going to the Denver Broncos. He has been named the quarterback of the future for the Broncos. However, the future may be now. Is it possible Cutler could find himself leading the Broncos to a playoff run? Spending a first round pick on a QB could mean the Broncos are worried about Jake Plummer. While he did play splendidly to finish the regular season, his playoff performance left some to be desired. If Cutler was thrown into the starting gig, would he be capable of getting wins? That is the real question.

Cutler made sure he was able to get to camp on time signing a six year contract, with $11 million in bonuses and a possible value of $48 million. Signing a contract early is something Phillip Rivers failed to do, and he may still be regretting that decision, having to keep the bench warm for two years. Cutler has also been performing well in practice and the preseason. Getting a lot of snaps towards the end of the first preseason game, Cutler was 16 of 22 for 192 yards and 1 TD. While it was not with the 1st team, it was still an impressive performance. Coach Mike Shanahan recognized Cutler's performance by promoting him to the 2nd team. That is a big step for the rookie QB.

It is hard to tell if Cutler would have the leadership and skills to take the Broncos into the playoffs. Considering he was playing with the lowly Vanderbilt Commodores, Cutler never truly got to play in a big time game. He failed to receive legitimate pass protection in his four years, and one would have to think his numbers suffered because of it. Even with all of this, Cutler was a three year captain, still bringing his effort week in and week out. Once Cutler got a chance to play against the best seniors in college football, he showed his stuff in the week leading up to the Senior Bowl. He had great practices and draft expert Mel Kiper, Jr. said Cutler might have been the best quarterback in the draft. Whatever he saw quickly vanished after game day. Cutler was a disappointing 6 of 19 with 1 TD and 1 INT.