Chicago Bears wideout Brandon Marshall has claimed that quarterback Jay Cutler could become the league's MVP next season.

Cutler missed a large portion of last term after injuring his groin, being replaced in the side by the now-departed Josh McCown.

With his fitness concerns now behind him and a new deal signed until 2020, Marshall believes that his teammate can lead the side to glory, and become the star man in the process.

Marshall told reporters: "Everything is different about him this year. Night and day, he's a totally different person; a totally different athlete.

"Jay is the first one in the building and that sucks because I've tried to be the first one in the building. He's there at like 5am. He lives it.

"I think he has great balance in his life now with his personal stuff. I think with coach [Marc] Trestman and [offensive coordinator, Aaron] Kromer and our offense, Jay could absolutely be MVP."

The Bears have failed to qualify for the post-season during any of the last three NFL seasons.