OT: Bears lock up Cutler through 2020

Only thing about this that is surprising to me is the dollar amount, but Cutler is an above average to good QB, which is an upgrade over every other QB the bears have ever had. Locking him down means you can focus on acquiring offensive lineman and fixing the defense.

Should also add that the NFL, more so than any other sports league, is a "win now" league in terms of culture. Considering how much value is put on having a "Franchise QB" and time investment for drafting and grooming a rookie QB (who is more likely to flame out completely than become even a middle of the road starter), locking up even an average guy like Cutler is probably the smart move and as someone said earlier, there are several ways for GMs to manipulate contracts and personnel to stay under the cap.

I think keeping Cutler was a must.  As well as McCown played, he is older, and his track record speaks volumes.  I think it must be said that there is a reason he was out of the league...he had a great stretch, but can you imagine what would have happened if Cutler walked and McCown played like his career stats (about 1:1 td to int ratio, passer rating of like 78)?  Cutler is not elite, but he is the safer bet for the next few years.  Draft defensive side of the ball this year, particularly in the secondary and along the line.  Then, 2015 or 2016 look for QB of the future. 

the length of the deal is somewhat irrelevant.  They can always just cut him the second he starts sucking/gets injured.  This isn't baseball, where the Angels are stuck paying Pujols a guaranteed $20 million a year until he is 50.