Brandon Marshall understands Jay Cutler nerves

Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall has said that he understands quarterback Jay Cutler being more nervous than usual ahead of yesterday's match against the Cleveland Browns.

Cutler made his return from injury with question marks hanging over whether he should be in the side due to replacement Josh McCown's fine form in recent weeks.

However, the 30-year-old overcame an early interception to throw three touchdown passes on the way to a 38-31 win, and Marshall believes that his teammate's response to the pressure is indicative of his personality.

"He's not going to show it, but the human side of things, you got a guy - Josh McCown - playing lights out, probably playing better than any quarterback in the National Football League," Marshall told The AP.

"That's what I love about Jay, man. Doesn't matter the situation, he's going to be the same guy. That's what I respect about him as a player, as a captain, but also as a friend."

The Bears will clinch a playoff place if they win their remaining two games, which are against the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers.