Chicago Bears 2017 Draft Profiles: Quarterbacks

Chad Kelly, Ole Miss (6-foot-4, 225 pounds)

Yes, Cutler must be replaced at some time, but does it have to be now? Some feel that the Bears should draft a quarterback with the thought of grooming him as a replacement. The Bears could keep Cutler and have the pick learn. That was the original plan for Prescott.

Even if Cutler isn’t the quarterback in 2017, Brian Hoyer can keep the spot warm until the draftee is ready.

Perhaps Cutler’s replacement could be a younger version of him?

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Chad Kelly certainly fits that bill. He is a big armed gunslinger out of Ole Miss. Of all the quarterbacks in this class, he’s had the most breathtaking highlights. Like Cutler, he can make the throws that not many others could. He feels he can make any throw, and that he can lead his team to victory with that arm.

Of course, as with Cutler, his decision-making comes into question. Having that gunslinger mentality means he makes some boneheaded throws. He is supremely confident, and his memory is short. That could be a good thing.

Kelly shows great anticipation when throwing the ball. He can make the throw before the receiver makes his break and delivers the ball on target, allowing that receiver to make a play.

Kelly needs to work on his footwork. Because of the arm, he sometimes doesn’t set his feet. He also has a tendency to stare down his receiver (sound familiar?).

Kelly is the nephew of Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly. Perhaps some counsel by his uncle, along with whoever coaches him before the Combine could help him put everything together.

There is probably little chance Kelly could see action as a starter in his first season. He suffered a torn ACL and is still rehabbing. Torn ACL’s aren’t what they used to be, so his recovery should not be that complicated. He can sit and watch and learn while getting stronger. When the time comes for him to take over, he should be ready.

Of course, having a Cutler reboot is a big if. Would the Bears want to go through another hard-headed quarterback phase? Will they be mesmerized by the big arm and talent again? It is intriguing, but if I were the Chicago Bears, I’d stay away from Kelly. Of course, if it’s the fourth round and he’s still available…