#6 Jay Cutler- Denver Broncos

6′3″, 230lbs
Year: 3rd
School: Vanderbilt

Career Transactions:
Jay Cutler was drafted in the 1st round (pick #11) of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos.

Career Statistics:
COMP: 480 | ATT: 761| COMP % 63.1 | YARDS: 5,773 | AVG: 7.6 | TD: 38 | INT: 23 | SACK: 42 |
RATING: 90.3 |

General Traits:
Cutler has risen among the NFL ranks during the 2008 season. The addition of receiver Eddie Royal, coupled with Brandon Marshall, has given Cutler a solid duo at receiver for the first time in his young career. Cutler has overcome Type 1 diabetes to be considered the best young quarterback in the game. His touch, athleticism and arm strength make him an exciting threat with the ball. Cutler has a knack for making the big play, but is very accurate and throws a catchable ball. His leadership is unquestioned, and many point to his working with Marshall and tight end Tony Scheffler in the off-season as the turning point in his career.

Position Traits:
Accuracy: Cutler is becoming known for his accuracy as we continue to see him develop as a passer. In only his second year in the NFL, Cutler posted an accuracy rating of 63%, a respectable number for any starting quarterback. Cutler’s accuracy derives from his mechanics. Noticeable in 2008 are changes to his footwork, most importantly that he is now stepping in to his throws more. Cutler is strong enough to drive the ball, but previously had the bad habit of throwing off his back foot and not following through on the ball.

Arm Strength: While he will not be in any strongest arm discussions, Cutler throws with good velocity. His deep ball doesn’t float and he can push the ball upfield well enough to keep a defense honest. As he regained strength during the 2007 off-season, Cutler’s deep ball became a larger part of the Denver arsenal. Is strong enough to make deep and hard throws on the run.

Decision Making: Cutler has improved here greatly in his short career. As a rookie, Cutler was looking to make plays and score points. As he has matured and settled in to the offense, Cutler is more likely to throw the ball away or run for a first down. He is still what some would consider a gunslinger, throwing on the run and pressing the ball in to tight areas.

Field Vision: Another area of improvement for Cutler. His ability to see the rush and move in the pocket are among the best. His feel for the defense is good, and natural. He makes many plays on the move and from the shotgun, which gives him an advantage over drop-back passers. Does a nice job of making his read while dropping back.

Mechanics: Has a clean drop step and a great motion throwing the ball. When throwing deep, he does pull the ball down and back, but sets his feet well and rotates through his hips. Does have a tendency to throw “open” (legs parallel and chest exposed) and not set up. When he does this, the nose of the ball comes out up and the ball floats. Holds the ball a little low in his drop steps. A seamless five-step drop and throw.

Mobility: At his best rolling right. Has a strong arm on the run and great passing mechanics. May be better moving than dropping back. Is a good runner, and can make moves in the open field. Can out run defenders. The perfect mix of runner and passer.

Pocket Awareness: Keeps his feet moving when in the pocket and feels the rush. Is a step-up passer, who will look for a running lane if his checkdowns are not there. Has such quick feet that it is going to be hard to contain him now and in the future.

Productivity: Impressive statistics for such a young player. His future is among the brightest of any player in the NFL. If Cutler were stock, we’d be buying as much as possible.

Position Ranking: #7