Chicago Bears release quarterback Jay Cutler

LAKE FOREST, IL -- The eight-year era of Jay Cutler behind center in Chicago has come to an end.

According to WGN, per a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, quarterback Jay Cutler will be released from the Bears at his request on Thursday, March 9th.

The Chicago Bears tweeted Thursday afternoon confirming the move.

At the end of the 2016, Cutler had a season-ending surgery on his shoulder, and was placed on injured reserve.