Jay Cutler Comments on Bears QB Situation, Future with Team and More

Jay Cutler is in line to start at quarterback for the Chicago Bears Monday against the Minnesota Vikings, but when asked Tuesday about his current and future standing with the team, the veteran signal-caller was cryptic.

Cutler was cleared to practice Monday after missing four games with a thumb injury, according to James Neveau of NBC Chicago.

His return comes at a perfect time for the Bears, as Brian Hoyer suffered a broken arm last week against the Green Bay Packers.

Hoyer had seemingly surpassed Cutler on the depth chart with his excellent play, and while Cutler may no longer be the preferred choice of head coach John Fox under center, Cutler knows he's the only game in town, per Rich Campbell of the Chicago Tribune:

Matt Barkley struggled in relief of Hoyer last week, which makes naming Cutler the starter an easy move now that he is healthy.

While Cutler's comment suggested Fox may have lost some confidence in him, he made it clear that there is no animosity between them:

The 33-year-old veteran still has four years remaining on his contract after this season, which could make it difficult for the Bears to cut bait.

While that may not stop the organization from doing so, Cutler isn't ready to look beyond 2016:

Chicago has struggled to a 1-6 record, and it is likely to miss the playoffs unless it goes on a miraculous run for the remainder of the season.

That doesn't appear to be in the cards, although Cutler has an opportunity to get himself back in the franchise's good graces.

With solid weapons such as wide receivers Alshon Jeffery and Cameron Meredith, as well as tight end Zach Miller at his disposal, Cutler and the Bears have a chance to do some damage offensively for the remainder of the campaign.

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter.