2016 NFL draft: Chiefs quarterback search
By Ben Almquist
Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Corey Wootton (99) sacks Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) in the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 13-9. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears: Truth be told, I’m amazed that Jay Cutler still has a job in Chicago. It seems like everyone, including the coaches, players, and front office, is ready to see him go…yet he’s still there. The fans and media are calling for him to be sent packing…but nothing happens. Jay Cutler is the perfect example of a guy who has his spot simply because the team can’t find any better options. But that might change this year. The Bears should be drafting high enough that they will be in play for all of the draft options.
The Bears have sold off almost all of their talent this season, and I think that means they decide to go the “best player available” route. There will be a ton of quality pass rushers and offensive linemen getting very high draft grades this year, and Chicago needs help in both areas. If that means suffering through another year of Jay Cutler, I think John Fox is willing to give it a go.
Cleveland Browns: Ah yes, the only team in the NFL to surpass the Chiefs ineptitude when it comes to drafting quarterbacks…though not for want of trying. The Browns simply cannot draft a quality quarterback. I don’t know why. It’s not like it has been the same leadership doing it over and over. Now, I know there are still some folks riding the Johnny Football hype train, but I seriously doubt there are many of them left in the Cleveland front office. After Manziel’s most recent headlines, it seems unlikely that the team will stick with him. Of course, it does appear they are going to give him every chance to prove his worth first.
I do think the Browns will take a quarterback. The question is how early will they do it? Like the Bears, the Browns would definitely benefit from adding some of the top talent at other positions. They really do need help almost across the board. My guess is that they end up adding another first round pick this offseason, likely by trading Joe Thomas, and use one of those picks on a quarterback prospect.
Next: Broncos and Lions...