The Chicago Bears have re-signed quarterback Jay Cutler to a seven-year extension that includes at least $50 million in guaranteed salary, according to ESPN.
Cutler was set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but after narrowly missing the playoffs for a second straight season the Bears quickly moved to put all the speculation about his future to rest.
General Manager Phil Emery announced the new deal, highlighting what he termed was the veteran's marked growth during 2013. For the year, Cutler amassed a career-high 89.2 passer rating and threw for 2,621 yards and 19 touchdowns.
"He's a demonstrated winner with the Chicago Bears," Emery told ESPN. "He can be a key player in terms of being the reason you win. Very excited to have Jay for the long term. Cutler battled through the tough times."
Before signing the deal, Cutler ranked 11th among quarterbacks in terms of average salary at $14, 718, 500. His new deal is expected to put him line to make what comparable signal-callers Eli Manning, Philip Rivers, Tony Romo, Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub all make.
Also on Thursday, the Bears re-signed cornerback Tim Jennings and guard Matt Slauson to four-year deals. The teams has now signed Bears five players who were pending free agents this offseason, the others being kicker Robbie Gould, and fullback Tony Fiammetta.
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