Jay Cutler to Chicago Bears: What Are the Fantasy Implications?

It didn't take long for Denver to throw out the trash, as today they announced the trade of Jay Cutler to the Chicago Bears.

The deal reportedly includes the Bears' first and third round picks in 2009, their first round pick in 2010, and Kyle Orton.

Broncos' fans must be weeping.

Meanwhile, in the Windy City, the Bears' title hopes now rest on an enigma. While there is no question that Cutler is a premier quarterback, he'll have a lot to answer for due to his prima donna attitude that forced Denver's hand, and the eventual trade to Chicago.

Cutler's complaint certainly wasn't without merit. New Bronco head coach Josh McDaniels made a classic and irrevocable faux pas by trying to make his mark by dealing for Matt Cassel, a deal that went south in more ways than he or owner Pat Bowlen could possibly have anticipated.

Still, Cutler could have handled the situation with more class. Instead, his petulance landed him smack dab in the middle of a fire fight that could only be stopped once the situation was reduced to ashes.

McDaniels must certainly be skating on thin ice. Kyle Orton falls far short of Cutler in talent.  The Denver offense suddenly becomes a huge question mark on a team that already has a questionable defense. 

Prized wide receiver Brandon Marshall takes a big hit in fantasy value, while Chicago's receivers suddenly become viable, if only because the strong-armed Cutler will strike fear into the hearts of NFC Central defenses.

Conversely, Cutler's value must slip, if just a little, without a true go-to wide receiver. Will the Bears suddenly make Devin Hester's transition to receiver a priority? Will they dive into the free agent market for a play-maker like Anquan Boldin, another disgruntled star looking for a ticket out of town?

Prepare yourselves.  This drama is just beginning.