Chicago Bears Free Agent Rumors: Jordan Palmer could replace Josh McCown

Aug 29, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jordan Palmer (2) drops back to pass against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jordan Palmer (2) drops back to pass against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 29, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jordan Palmer (2) drops back to pass against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jordan Palmer (2) drops back to pass against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

The Chicago Bears are looking at free gent quarterbacks this offseason to back up Jay Cutler in case they lose out on Josh McCown. The first choice for both the Bears and for McCown would be to reunite in 2014 and work out a contract next week.

McCown is poised to draw significant attention in free agency from the Vikings, Buccaneers, Raiders, Jets and others which may mean a return to Chicago isn’t in the cards. If that’s the case, Bears beat writer Michael C. Wright states that Jordan Palmer could become a viable backup option in Chicago.

Per ESPN.com:

"The logical choice is Jordan Palmer, who spent the last nine games with the Bears in 2013, and likely wouldn’t command more than the veteran minimum in 2014. Palmer is familiar with Chicago’s system, and Bears coach Marc Trestman was impressed by how quickly the quarterback learned the offense … Remember, during Josh McCown’s stint as the starter, Palmer served as the primary backup. So there’s somewhat of a comfort level there."

The Bears aren’t going to get splashy with who they get to backup Cutler, as they’re a bit strapped for cash. But Palmer is a guy who fits the system and could end up making a name for himself much like McCown has in Chicago.