Bears QB Jay Cutler suffers broken thumb

CHICAGO, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler suffered a broken thumb on his throwing hand, coach Lovie Smith confirmed Monday.

It was uncertain how long Cutler would be unable to play.

The Chicago Tribune, citing multiple sources, said Cutler is expected to be out six to eight weeks and may have surgery, and the Chicago Sun Times, citing two sources, said the quarterback could be sidelined the rest of the season.

Smith, however, told WBBM-Radio, Chicago, it's uncertain how long Cutler would be out and he would know more after the quarterback sees specialists.

"I'm not going to play doctor right now," he said. "We are going through the [medical exam] process."

The injury in the fourth quarter of the Bears' 31-20 victory over the San Diego Chargers Sunday came when Cutler dived and slowed Chargers cornerback Antoine Cason after an interception.

Cutler played the rest of the game and, despite the injury, completed two third-down passes in a 7 1/2-minute drive.

The Tribune said the Bears considering whether to have a pin inserted to help in Cutler's healing. The newspaper said he could return for a playoff if the 7-3 Bears remain in contention with Caleb Hanie starting as quarterback.