Jay Cutler, Adam Gase Reportedly in Contact, Cutler Hasn't Given 'Outright No'

The Miami Dolphins have made veteran quarterback Jay Cutler their top target as they prepare for the possibility of Ryan Tannehill's knee surgery, according to Jeff Darlington of ESPN.

Per Darlington, head coach Adam Gase and Cutler have spoken and Cutler "hasn't given the team an outright no." Darlington also added more context to the situation:

Cutler, 34, joined Fox Sports as an NFL analyst this offseason after an 11-year career with the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears. Darlington reported Saturday that Cutler was "leaning toward staying in broadcasting."

"When I get there, I will be able to tell you, but I don't think it's close to anything," Gase said of Cutler's potential signing. "Like I said, I've had one conversation with [Cutler]. That's where we're at.

"I'm dealing with this [team] right now. When I know more, hopefully within the next few days, I will have a better idea of what's going on. ...

"He's interested. But we're just trying to figure out everything. You don't expect this to happen. ... I know I need somebody either way. I'd like to know exactly with Ryan first. So that helps me make a decision with what direction to go."

Tannehill, 29, re-injured his left knee in practice Thursday, and there have been conflicting reports that there was no structural damage or that he may need season-ending surgery.

Matt Moore would be the team's starter as it stands, though adding another signal-caller will be crucial for the Dolphins if Tannehill is forced to miss significant time. Cutler, who paired with Gase when the latter was the offensive coordinator in Chicago in 2015, would be a logical solution if he's willing to return to the NFL.