Dolphins lure quarterback Cutler back to NFL

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The Miami Dolphins agreed to a one-year, US$10 million contract with former Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler on Sunday, United States media reported.

The Dolphins were in search of a signal-caller after starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill sustained a serious left knee injury in pre-season training on Thursday.

Cutler, who had surgery on a shoulder injury in December, was released by the Bears in the National Football League offseason and retired to take a television job with Fox Sports in May.

He indicated he would consider a return to the league if the situation was right.

Dolphins coach Adam Gase worked with Cutler as offensive coordinator of the Bears in 2015.

The Miami Herald, citing league sources, reported that Cutler agreed to a one-year deal worth US$10 million plus incentives. That includes a base salary of US$5 million.

Cutler could take the starting role ahead of Matt Moore — Tannehill's backup who helped the Dolphins make the playoffs late last season.

Cutler, 34, enjoyed success in his one season playing under Gase as he compiled a career-best 92.3 quarterback rating. He passed for 3,659 yards and 21 touchdowns against 11 interceptions.

The Dolphins have not announced a timetable for Tannehill's recovery or even if he will undergo surgery, which likely would be season-ending.

Tannehill suffered two sprained ligaments in the same knee last December but did not have surgery.

Meanwhile, Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jalen Collins has been suspended for 10 days without pay for a second violation of the NFL's performance-enhancing drugs policy, the league said on Sunday.

Collins, 24, served a four-game suspension last season for his first offense. The league did not divulge details of Collins' latest violation.

"We are extremely disappointed that for the second straight season we are dealing with a suspension for Jalen," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said in a statement. "Such are the consequences when certain choices are made. Our decisions going forward will be based on what (coach) Dan (Quinn) and I feel is best for the team."

Collins is allowed to participate in practice and preseason games during his suspension, which starts at the beginning of the regular season.

Collins was projected to be a starter this season after filling in for injured star Desmond Trufant last season.

He started in Atlanta's Super Bowl loss to the New England Patriots in February.

Collins, who had two interceptions last season, is eligible to return to the Falcons' active roster on November 21.