Former Bears QB Jay Cutler Arrested on DUI, Weapons Charges

Former Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was arrested Thursday afternoon in Franklin, Tennessee, on charges of driving under the influence, possession of a handgun while under the influence, and failure to exercise due care in a collision.

According to the Franklin Police Department, the incident occurred when Cutler allegedly rear-ended another vehicle. Reports indicate that Cutler attempted to resolve the situation privately, offering the other driver $2,000 not to report the crash. Despite this effort, authorities were alerted and responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, officers observed that Cutler showed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. When questioned, Cutler initially denied consuming alcohol but later admitted to drinking "a little bit" before driving.

The Franklin Police reported that Cutler refused to undergo a field sobriety test at the scene. Following standard protocol, he was taken to a local hospital for a blood test, the results of which are pending.

The situation became more complex when officers discovered a rifle and a loaded glock handgun in Cutler's vehicle, leading to the additional charge of possessing a weapon while under the influence.

Cutler, drafted 11th overall by the Denver Broncos in 2006, spent the majority of his 12-year NFL career with the Chicago Bears. He retired in 2017 after a 14-game stint with the Miami Dolphins. During his career, he threw for over 35,000 passing yards and completed 227 touchdown passes .

The legal consequences Cutler faces are significant. In Tennessee, a first-offense DUI charge carries a maximum sentence of 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,500. The weapons charge could result in additional penalties.

Cutler is scheduled to appear in Williamson County Court next month. The results of his blood test, which could play a crucial role in the case, are expected to be available before the court date.

Subscribe to On Tap Sports Net on YouTube and the Bears On Tap podcast for more Chicago Bears content, updates, and hot takes!