Jay Cutler, the former Vanderbilt University and NFL quarterback, was arrested on Thursday in Franklin on charges of driving under the influence. The incident occurred after a two-vehicle collision, prompting police to respond to the scene around 5 p.m.
According to the Franklin Police Department, Cutler, 41, is also facing charges for failing to exercise due care, implied consent violations, and possession of a handgun while under the influence. He was driving a White Dodge Ram pick-up truck that rear-ended a GMC.
The 61-year-old driver of the GMC contacted 911 to report that Cutler was attempting to leave the scene after allegedly offering him $2,000 to avoid calling the police. The other driver subsequently went to the hospital to address back pain he experienced after the accident.
Police noted that upon interaction with Cutler, there was a strong smell of alcohol, and he exhibited slurred speech and red eyes. Initially, Cutler claimed he had not consumed alcohol but later admitted to having “a little bit.” He declined to perform a field sobriety test and was instead taken to a local hospital for blood testing.
A search of Cutler’s vehicle revealed a rifle in the backseat and a loaded Glock handgun in the center console. Following his arrest, Cutler was booked into the Williamson County jail and released later that night on a $5,000 bond.
Cutler had a notable football career, playing for Vanderbilt from 2001 to 2005 before being selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He also played for the Chicago Bears and completed his 12-year career with the Miami Dolphins. After retiring in 2017, he resided in Middle Tennessee with reality television star Kristin Cavallari until their divorce in 2022.