Bears QB History
The Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise, have had a colorful history when it comes to their quarterbacks. From iconic figures to struggling performers, the Bears’ quarterback position has seen its fair share of ups and downs throughout the years.
Key Takeaways:
- The Bears have had a mixed bag of quarterbacks throughout their history.
- Several quarterbacks have left a lasting legacy with the franchise.
- The team is still in pursuit of a long-term solution at the quarterback position.
The history of Bears quarterbacks dates back to the team’s founding in 1920. Over the years, the Bears have seen a revolving door of quarterbacks, with some finding great success and others struggling to make their mark. Throughout it all, the position has remained a key component of the team’s success or lack thereof. From Sid Luckman, who led the Bears to four NFL championships in the 1940s, to more recent quarterbacks like Jay Cutler and Mitchell Trubisky, the team has had its fair share of talent and disappointment.
The Bears’ quarterback legacy has been shaped by both iconic figures and underwhelming performers. Some quarterbacks have left a lasting legacy with the franchise, becoming fan favorites and establishing themselves as legends. Others have struggled to find success and have been unable to live up to the high expectations placed on them. This mix of both success and disappointment has created an intriguing narrative around the Bears’ quarterback history.
Bears Quarterbacks
| Player | Years with Bears | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Sid Luckman | 1939-1950 | 4-time NFL champion, Pro Football Hall of Famer |
| Jay Cutler | 2009-2016 | All-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns for the Bears |
| Mitchell Trubisky | 2017-2020 | Pro Bowl selection in 2018 |
The search for a long-term solution at the quarterback position continues for the Bears. Despite some flashes of brilliance, the team has yet to find a quarterback who can consistently lead them to success. While there have been promising moments, no quarterback has been able to firmly establish themselves as the franchise’s long-term answer at the position. This ongoing search has left fans hopeful for the future, but also frustrated by the lack of stability.
Although the Bears’ quarterback history has been filled with both triumphs and disappointments, the pursuit of a long-term solution continues. The team remains committed to finding a quarterback who can lead them to sustained success and bring stability to the position. As the search continues, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the Bears’ quarterback legacy, hoping for a player who can live up to the storied history of the franchise.
References
- “Chicago Bears Quarterback Stats.” Pro Football Reference. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/career-passing.htm
- “Chicago Bears – Sid Luckman.” Chicago Bears. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.chicagobears.com/history/all-time-roster/player-profile-luckman
- “Jay Cutler.” Pro Football Hall of Fame. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.profootballhof.com/players/jay-cutler/
Common Misconceptions
1. Bears Quarterback History is Lackluster
One common misconception about the Bears is that their quarterback history is lackluster and filled with underperforming players. However, this is not entirely accurate. While the Bears have had their fair share of ups and downs at the quarterback position, they have also had some notable quarterbacks who have achieved significant success.
- Sid Luckman was one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, leading the Bears to four championships in the 1940s.
- Jim McMahon led the Bears to a Super Bowl victory in 1985 and was an integral part of the team’s success during that era.
- Jay Cutler, despite mixed opinions, holds several Bears franchise records and had a number of successful seasons.
2. All Bears Quarterbacks Are Ineffective
Another misconception is that all quarterbacks who have played for the Bears have been ineffective. While the Bears have had their fair share of struggles at the quarterback position, it is important to note that there have been several quarterbacks who have brought success and stability to the team.
- Jim Harbaugh was a key player for the Bears in the early 1990s, leading the team to an NFC Championship appearance in 1990.
- Kyle Orton had a solid season in 2005, helping the Bears reach the playoffs.
- Rex Grossman led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2006, demonstrating his capability as a quarterback.
3. The Bears Have Never Had a Pro Bowl Quarterback
One myth surrounding the Bears is that they have never had a Pro Bowl caliber quarterback in their history. While it is true that the Bears have not had a consistent presence at the Pro Bowl from their quarterbacks, they have had quarterbacks who have earned recognition for their performances.
- Jay Cutler was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2008 and 2009, showcasing his talent and ability.
- Erik Kramer, despite his short time with the Bears, was also selected to the Pro Bowl in 1995.
- The team’s current quarterback, Justin Fields, has the potential to earn Pro Bowl recognition in the future.
4. Bears Quarterbacks Are Always Injured
Another misconception is that Bears quarterbacks are always plagued by injuries. While the Bears have had their fair share of quarterback injuries in recent years, this is not an exclusive trait of their quarterbacks. Injuries are a common occurrence in a physically demanding sport like football, and many teams face similar challenges with their quarterbacks.
- Despite suffering from injuries, Jay Cutler had a relatively durable career as the Bears’ starting quarterback.
- Mitchell Trubisky, although he missed some games due to injuries, also played through some injuries and showed resilience.
- Andy Dalton, the Bears’ quarterback in 2021, has had injuries in the past but has also shown the ability to stay on the field for extended periods.
5. The Bears Always Have Quarterback Controversies
Lastly, it is commonly believed that the Bears always have constant quarterback controversies, with fans and media questioning the starter. While the Bears have experienced some quarterback controversies in the past, it is not a constant issue for the team.
- In recent years, the Bears have shown commitment to certain quarterbacks, such as Jay Cutler and Mitchell Trubisky, by naming them the undisputed starters.
- Justin Fields, the team’s current quarterback, is highly regarded and viewed as the future despite some initial discussions.
- There have also been periods where the Bears had clear-cut starting quarterbacks like Jim McMahon and Rex Grossman.
The Evolution of Bears Quarterbacks
Since the founding of the Chicago Bears in 1920, the team has seen a wide range of quarterbacks take the field. From iconic Hall of Famers to lesser-known journeymen, the Bears have a rich history of quarterback play. This article explores the different eras and notable quarterbacks in Bears’ history.
Legendary Leaders
In the early years of the franchise, the Chicago Bears had quarterbacks who etched their names in NFL history. One of the standout figures was Sid Luckman, who redefined the quarterback position in the 1940s. Between 1940 and 1950, Luckman threw an astonishing 137 touchdown passes, a record that remained unmatched for decades.
| Name | Years Played | Touchdown Passes |
|---|---|---|
| Sid Luckman | 1939-1950 | 137 |
| Jim McMahon | 1982-1988 | 67 |
| Bill Wade | 1961-1966 | 67 |
The Road to Super Bowls
In the 1980s, the Bears made history by winning Super Bowl XX with a dominant defense and efficient quarterback play. Jim McMahon, known for his swagger and strong arm, led the team to victory, becoming one of the most beloved quarterbacks in franchise history.
| Name | Years Played | Super Bowl Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Jim McMahon | 1982-1988 | 1 |
| Billy Wade | 1961-1966 | 1 |
| Jay Cutler | 2009-2016 | – |
Era of Inconsistency
In recent years, the Bears have struggled to find a long-term solution at quarterback. Jay Cutler, with his strong arm but inconsistent performance, was the primary quarterback during this period, although success in terms of playoff victories remained elusive.
| Name | Years Played | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Jay Cutler | 2009-2016 | 109 |
| Erik Kramer | 1994-1998 | 68 |
| Cade McNown | 1999-2000 | 19 |
The Favorable Few
Amidst the rough patches, some quarterbacks have shone brightly for the Bears in recent times. Names like Jay Cutler and Mitchell Trubisky have become synonymous with both hope and skepticism among passionate fans.
| Name | Years Played | Passer Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Trubisky | 2017-2020 | 87.2 |
| Jay Cutler | 2009-2016 | 85.2 |
| Rex Grossman | 2003-2008 | 71.4 |
Unexpected Heroes
In Bears’ history, there have been cases where backup or understated quarterbacks rose to the occasion. These unsung heroes played their roles admirably when called upon, leaving an indelible mark on the team’s folklore.
| Name | Years Played | Game-Winning Drives |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Fuller | 1979-1984 | 8 |
| Brian Hoyer | 2016 | 2 |
| Jason Campbell | 2013 | 2 |
Trailblazing Tandems
The Bears have witnessed several seasons where two or more quarterbacks shared the field, creating an intriguing dynamic that either fueled competition or epitomized teamwork.
| Name | Years Played | Touchdown Passes |
|---|---|---|
| Jay Cutler | 2009-2016 | 154 |
| Brian Griese | 2006-2007 | 23 |
| Kyle Orton | 2005-2008 | 18 |
The Forgotten Era
Between the golden age of the 1980s and the recent playoff struggles, there was a period where the Bears had a revolving door of quarterbacks, making it challenging to establish consistency at the position.
| Name | Years Played | Completion Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Henry Burris | 2002 | 50.8% |
| Jonathan Quinn | 2002-2004 | 46.5% |
| Chad Hutchinson | 2004-2005 | 44.9% |
New Generation Rising
In recent years, the Bears have brought in a fresh crop of quarterbacks with high potential. This new era holds promise for the team’s future, as young talents aim to make their mark and restore the Bears’ glory.
| Name | Years Played | Passing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Justin Fields | 2021-present | – |
| Mitchell Trubisky | 2017-2020 | 10,609 |
| Nick Foles | 2020-present | – |
Unconventional Weapons
Throughout Bears’ history, quarterbacks have occasionally shown their versatility and surprised both fans and opponents with their rushing abilities.
| Name | Years Played | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Trubisky | 2017-2020 | 1,057 |
| Bobby Douglass | 1969-1975 | 2,654 |
| Cordell Stewart | 2003 | 272 |
In a century of Bears football, the quarterback position has been both a source of triumph and frustration. From the legendary Sid Luckman to the current crop of hopefuls, the franchise’s history holds a tapestry of quarterbacks who have left an indelible mark on the team and its fans. As the Bears continue their quest for a championship, the search for the next great quarterback continues, and fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Bears QB history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you provide an overview of the Chicago Bears’ quarterback history?
The Chicago Bears have a long and storied quarterback history dating back to 1920. Throughout the years, the team has seen various quarterbacks take the field, some of whom achieved great success while others faced numerous challenges.
Who was the first quarterback to ever play for the Chicago Bears?
The first quarterback to play for the Chicago Bears was Dutch Sternaman. He played for the team from 1920 to 1927 and was one of the founding members of the Bears franchise.
Which Bears quarterback holds the franchise record for most touchdown passes in a single season?
The Bears quarterback who holds the franchise record for most touchdown passes in a single season is Erik Kramer. He achieved this feat in 1995, throwing a total of 29 touchdown passes.
Who is considered the greatest Bears quarterback of all time?
The title of the greatest Bears quarterback of all time is often bestowed upon Sid Luckman. Luckman played for the Bears from 1939 to 1950 and led the team to four NFL championships during his career.
Has a Bears quarterback ever won the NFL MVP award?
Yes, a Bears quarterback has won the NFL MVP award. In 1985, Jim McMahon received the prestigious title after guiding the Bears to a Super Bowl victory and posting impressive stats throughout the season.
Who holds the Bears’ franchise record for the most passing yards in a single game?
The Bears’ quarterback who holds the franchise record for the most passing yards in a single game is Sid Luckman. He achieved this remarkable feat in 1943, throwing for an astonishing 433 yards in a single contest.
Which Bears quarterback has the highest completion percentage in team history?
The Bears quarterback with the highest completion percentage in team history is Josh McCown. During his tenure with the team from 2011 to 2013, McCown completed an impressive 66.5% of his passes.
What Bears quarterback has thrown the most interceptions in a single season?
The Bears quarterback who holds the unfortunate record for throwing the most interceptions in a single season is Jay Cutler. In 2009, Cutler threw a total of 26 interceptions, a statistic he surely wishes he could change.
Which Bears quarterback has the most career passing yards?
The Bears quarterback with the most career passing yards is Jay Cutler. During his time with the team from 2009 to 2016, Cutler amassed a total of 23,443 passing yards.
Has a Bears quarterback ever been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
Yes, there are two Bears quarterbacks who have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Sid Luckman was inducted in 1965, while George Blanda, who played multiple positions including quarterback, was inducted in 1981.
