National Football League

Chicago Bears free agency preview: Jay Cutler poses cap problem

Published Mar. 4, 2015 11:16 a.m. ET

Ross Jones

General manager Ryan Pace and head coach John Fox will attempt to assemble a roster that has a good blend of veterans and youth, while enhancing it with players who fit their philosophies.

Fox, who hired Vic Fangio to be his defensive coordinator, will employ a 3-4 defense, a stark contrast from the type of scheme that was run in Chicago a season ago.

On the other side of the ball, the Bears' brass have yet to commit to quarterback Jay Cutler.

What their options are beyond the strong-armed passer are unknown, but Cutler's hefty salary and turbulent play could be a potential sinkhole for the franchise.

How they finished:

2014: 5-11 -- no postseason

2013: 8-8 -- no postseason

Adjusted salary cap space: $25 million

Potential free agency targets: Luring away Ndamukong Suh from Detroit would certainly be a coup. But acquiring weighted-down contracts aren't what teams who sustain success do. Expect Chicago to be very diligent with their money and make some stealthy signings.

Potential cap casualties: While a trade would certainly make more sense than a release, Cutler could likely be playing under center elsewhere next season.

Offseason needs: OLB, CB, S

Notable free agents:

OLB Lance Briggs

OL Brian de la Puente

S Chris Conte

QB Jimmy Clausen

OL Eben Britton

MLB D.J. Williams

CB Charles Tillman

TE Dante Rosario

DT Stephen Paea

TE Zach Miller