New York Jets like Jay Cutler's 'moxie'

Feb. 22 (UPI) -- The Chicago Bears are look to part with its veteran gunslinger and the New York Jets is a name that keeps coming up.

Cutler underwent surgery for a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder in December, but is expected to be medically cleared by March. His release is expected to come after the start of the new league year, despite being owed $12.5 million with a $.5 million roster bonus in 2017. He is currently signed through 2020 as part of the seven-year, $126.7 million contract he signed in 2014.

The Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Cleveland Browns continue to be brought up as potential landing spots for the 33-year-old.

On Tuesday, AZCentral Sports contradicted a report that the Arizona Cardinals were interested in Cutler.

CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora reported Wednesday that the Jets have "some interest" in the one-time Pro Bowl selection as a "bridge quarterback." ESPN's Rich Cimini claims that the Jets "won't be suitors" for the quarterback.

"They believe he can play in the elements that are a reality in the AFC East, and they like his moxie and arm talent," La Canfora wrote. "And that was well before the Jets hired Jeremy Bates as their quarterback coach."

Cutler has lost his starting job numerous times in the last few years and passed for 1,059 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions in five starts last season for the Bears.

Bates worked with Cutler as an offensive assistant and quarterbacks coach from 2006 through 2008 with the Denver Broncos. He also served as his quarterbacks coach in 2012 with the Bears. The Jets hired Bates earlier this month as its quarterbacks coach.