Cutler on Collins: “Interesting Dynamic”

Jay Cutler acknowledges the addition of Todd Collins to QB unit of Bears

"Interesting dynamic."

That's how Bears quarterback Jay Cutler described the addition of Todd Collins to the QB room at Halas Hall Tuesday. 

"A guy who's been in the league a long time," Cutler said. "Has a great perspective on game week and how to prepare and stuff ... it's going to be a good addition for myself, I think it's going to be a great addition for Caleb helping him along and preparing for each game."

After sources told NBC Chicago early last week the Bears weren't convinced Hanie had enough experience to backup Cutler, it's apparent they are leaving the job open for competition.

"We were pleased with Caleb's progress and had he stayed healthy I was pretty confident that he would be a real good backup," Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz said.  Yet once Hanie sprained his shoulder in the first preseason game against San Diego, his progress was stalled.  "That kind of put a stick in the spokes so to speak, " Martz explained "And then we didn't know exactly when Caleb would bet back." 

The Bears expect Hanie to return in time for the regular season, but there are adjustments the entire unit needs to see from the quarterback.  "Veteran" adjustments, Martz explained. 

"There's so many things he (Hanie) has to get in a game and work through ... you just need to be in a game to pick up and a veteran kind of has that exposure."

Collins reportedly has a six-figure signing bonus, but a one-year contract that could be guaranteed with a spot on the 53 man roster.  Whether or not the Bears decide to keep 3 quarterbacks on the roster will be interesting to see.  "You can't have enough good quarterbacks, you just can't," Martz said,  "It's a pivotal position for what we do."

And pivotal for Hanie to get back and show some veteran adjustments on the practice field and games, too.

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