Jets interested in former Bears QB Jay Cutler, report says

Could the Jets join forces with Jay Cutler?

The talented but erratic quarterback, whom the Bears released Thursday, reportedly is firmly on Mike Maccagnan's radar.

Although Cutler, 33, has a reputation for being moody, it's easy to see why the Jets already have reached out. Newly hired quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates was with Cutler in Denver and Chicago, meaning his adjustment to the Jets' offense would be somewhat easier.

But even if the Jets do land Cutler, he'll be only a consolation prize. They always had their sights set on Bucs free-agent quarterback Mike Glennon. But before free agency officially began at 4 p.m. Thursday, news had already spread that Glennon's three-year, $43.5-million deal (which includes a reported $18.5 million guaranteed) with the Bears was close to being finalized.

With each passing day, the free-agent quarterback pool dries up. Tyrod Taylor and Brian Hoyer were snatched up Wednesday, as Taylor restructured his contract to remain in Buffalo and Hoyer agreed in principle on a two-year deal with the 49ers.

There's a chance the Jets might not even snag a veteran quarterback when all is said and done. But as of now they're making calls _ including to Cutler's camp.

Cutler arrived in Chicago back in 2009 in a trade with the Broncos. But despite his arm strength and accuracy, Cutler has underachieved in his 11-year career. He's 68-71 as a starter and went 51-51 in the regular season in Chicago, leading the Bears to only one playoff berth.

He's thrown for 32,467 yards, with 208 touchdowns and 146 interceptions. But last year he played in only five games because of thumb and shoulder injuries, completing 81 of 137 passes for 1,059 yards, four TDs and five INTs.

The crop of available free-agent quarterbacks consists of unproven talent and plenty of retreads, including former Jets Ryan Fitzpatrick and Mark Sanchez, as well as Colin Kaepernick, Josh McCown and Matt Barkley.

There were conflicting ESPN reports about the Broncos' interest in trading quarterback Trevor Siemian and the Jets being a potential suitor. There's also the question of where Tony Romo might land. The Cowboys reportedly are interested in trading the frequently injured Romo, possibly to the Broncos or the Texans.