What Happened to Jay Christopher Cutler?
Jay Cutler is a former American professional football quarterback who played 12 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Chicago Bears. Since retiring from football in 2017, he has transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching several businesses including a meat subscription service, an outdoor lifestyle brand, and a beer company, while also engaging in podcasting and remaining active in the fitness and bodybuilding community.
Quick Answer
After a 12-season NFL career, predominantly as the quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Jay Cutler retired from professional football in 2017. He initially pursued a broadcasting career but quickly shifted to entrepreneurship. As of April 2026, Cutler is actively involved in various business ventures, including his 'Outsider' brand (featuring cigars and 'Gratis' beer), a meat subscription service, and his 'Cutler Nutrition' supplement line. He also hosts multiple podcasts, such as "Uncut with Jay Cutler" and "Cutler Cast," and continues to be a prominent figure in the bodybuilding world, organizing events like the NPC Jay Cutler Desert Classic.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline15 events
Born in Santa Claus, Indiana
Jay Christopher Cutler was born in Santa Claus, Indiana, beginning his journey to become a professional athlete.
Drafted by Denver Broncos
After a successful college career at Vanderbilt, Jay Cutler was selected 11th overall in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos.
Earns Pro Bowl Selection
Cutler's strong performance with the Broncos earned him his first and only Pro Bowl selection.
Traded to Chicago Bears
Jay Cutler was traded to the Chicago Bears, where he would spend the majority of his NFL career.
Leads Bears to NFC Championship Game
Cutler led the Chicago Bears to a division title and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game during the 2010-2011 season.
Marries Kristin Cavallari
Jay Cutler married television personality Kristin Cavallari, with whom he would later have three children.
Announces Retirement from NFL (initially) and Joins FOX Sports
After being released by the Bears, Cutler announced his retirement from the NFL and joined FOX Sports as a game analyst. He would briefly return to play later that year.
Plays Final NFL Season with Miami Dolphins
Cutler came out of his brief retirement to play one season for the Miami Dolphins, which marked his final year in the NFL.
Announces Divorce from Kristin Cavallari
Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari publicly announced their decision to divorce after ten years together and nearly seven years of marriage.
Launches 'Cuts' Meat Subscription Box
Cutler ventured into the food industry by launching 'Cuts,' a meat subscription service in partnership with butcher Pat LaFrieda.
Starts 'Uncut with Jay Cutler' Podcast
Cutler launched his podcast, 'Uncut with Jay Cutler,' where he interviews various guests on a range of topics.
Divorce from Kristin Cavallari Finalized
The divorce proceedings between Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari were officially finalized.
Expands 'Outsider' Brand with Beer and Cigars
Cutler's 'Outsider' brand, which embodies an outdoor lifestyle, expanded to include 'Outsider' cigars and 'Gratis' craft beer.
Shares Fitness Advice on Training
Still actively involved in fitness, Cutler shared insights on training techniques, specifically regarding biceps, emphasizing 'feeling the exercise' over strict form.
Hosts NPC Jay Cutler Desert Classic
Jay Cutler continues his involvement in the bodybuilding world by hosting the 2026 NPC Jay Cutler Desert Classic in Las Vegas.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Jay Christopher Cutler, born on April 29, 1983, carved out a notable 12-season career as a professional football quarterback in the National Football League. Drafted 11th overall in the first round by the Denver Broncos in 2006, he quickly established himself as a strong-armed passer, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2008. His most significant tenure was with the Chicago Bears, where he played for eight seasons (2009-2016) and became the franchise leader in passing yards, touchdowns, attempts, and completions. Cutler led the Bears to the NFC Championship game during the 2010-2011 season, a highlight of his time in Chicago.
Cutler's NFL career concluded after a final season with the Miami Dolphins in 2017. Following his release from the Bears and limited interest from other teams, he initially announced his retirement from the NFL to join FOX Sports as a game analyst in May 2017. However, this broadcasting stint was brief, as he returned to play for the Dolphins for one season. After his definitive retirement from playing, Cutler's focus shifted significantly towards entrepreneurial endeavors and media.
A major turning point in Cutler's personal life occurred with his divorce from television personality Kristin Cavallari. The couple, who married in 2013 and share three children, announced their separation in April 2020, with their divorce finalized in 2022. This period coincided with a more public embrace of his post-football identity, moving beyond the scrutiny of his playing days.
Since his full retirement, Cutler has launched several businesses. In June 2021, he co-founded 'Cuts,' a meat subscription box service with famed butcher Pat LaFrieda. He also ventured into the outdoor lifestyle market with his 'Outsider' brand, which includes 'Outsider' cigars and 'Gratis' craft beer, brewed in Nashville. Cutler is also associated with 'Cutler Nutrition,' a bodybuilding supplement business. His engagement with digital trends includes the launch of 'The Meta Pumps,' a non-fungible token (NFT) project in March 2022, aimed at building a fitness community in the web3 space.
As of April 2026, Jay Cutler remains highly active in the media and fitness industries. He hosts multiple podcasts, including "Uncut with Jay Cutler" (launched in 2021) and "Cutler Cast," where he discusses various topics with guests, often related to sports and fitness. He also features in "Jaywalking" videos, sharing updates on his life and travels. Cutler continues to be involved in the bodybuilding community, regularly training and sharing fitness advice, as evidenced by his discussions on training techniques in March 2026 and his role in organizing events like the 2026 NPC Jay Cutler Desert Classic, scheduled for April 4, 2026. He maintains a significant social media presence, using platforms like Instagram to promote his brands and share his passion for the outdoors, including hunting.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Jay Christopher Cutler made different choices?