It took some persistence from his offensive coordinator two years ago here in Chicago, but Jay Cutler finally decided Sunday morning to end his short-lived retirement.
The quarterback who set new Bears records in most individual passing categories during his eight seasons here will come to Adam Gase's rescue by agreeing to a one-year contract with the Dolphins, days after losing starter Ryan Tannehill to a second left knee injury since December.
That means Cutler, who was scheduled to make his game broadcast debut for FOX in the third preseason game August 27th in Tennessee, then return to Soldier Field Sept. 10th for the regular season opener, will be busy, back on the field.
It remains to be seen how quickly Cutler can get into football shape, especially an arm that had labrum surgery last December to cap his Bears career. Until then, Matt Moore will run the offense, but the timing should allow Cutler to be ready for Miami's regular season opener.
As a matter of fact, Gase and company, who were a playoff team a year ago, have an opportunity for a strong start, based on their schedule. After hosting Tampa Bay to open the season, they have road games in Los Angeles against the relocated Chargers, then in New York against the Jets before traveling London to take on the Saints.
The familiarity between Gase and Cutler made him a better fit in Miami over Colin Kaepernick, who remains out of work.
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But Cutler reportedly was hesitant on whether he wanted to come out of retirement, his broadcasting agent saying late Saturday afternoon that his client still hadn't finalized a decision, and criticizing reports citing anonymous sources that a deal was already done. Gase himself indicated as much later Saturday, stating simply that the two had spoken, Cutler was interested, and was not demanding the starting job.
Now it's a done deal, and the 34-year-old will get busy getting into shape, embarking on a 12th NFL season, and reuniting with Jermon Bushrod, David Fales, and Gase. And he'll probably see some Chicago media greet him upon his arrival to Dolphins camp, as well.