Prior to Chicago’s 38-10 drubbing against the Vikings, Bears general manager Ryan Pace spoke to Jeff Joniak about the current state of the franchise. Here are the most interesting quotes from the interview.
#5. On Matt Barkley’s future, specifically rebounding from his five-interception outing.
Pace: “I think today is going to be important for him. Really anytime you’re evaluating a quarterback you want to see how they handle adversity and how they respond, especially the following game.”
Possible Meaning: Barkley rebounded with a 59.2 QB rating going 10 of 14 with no touchdowns and two more interceptions. That puts his season rating at 68.3. Based on Pace’s quote it’s safe to assume he won’t altering Chicago’s plan to pursue a starting quarterback in the off-season, he’s more likely to compete for the backup position.
#4. About his recent conversations with Jay Cutler.
Pace: “Our conversations have been more with the trainers kind of regarding his rehab. One thing with Jay, you know this, it’s always been the case. He’s an extremely fast healer.”
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Possible Meaning: Cutler’s cap hit in 2017 is $16 million, then $17, $20 and $21.7 for the next three seasons after that. With all the rumors swirling about the possibility of getting traded, or cut, it sounds like Pace is taking an opportunity to tell everyone Jay is okay and healing fast. That answer sounds like something someone would say when pitching a fantasy football trade. Cross your fingers for a sixth-round pick.
