During an appearance on NFL Network's "NFL AM" Tuesday, Bears receiver Brandon Marshall discussed his lofty goals for 2014, the re-signing of quarterback Jay Cutler and more.
Marshall has been ultra-productive in his first two years with the Bears, becoming the first receiver in franchise history to catch at least 100 passes in multiple seasons. But he thinks he can have an even better year in 2014, in part because he's healthier than he has been in a long time.
Marshall underwent the third hip surgery of his eight-year NFL career last January and missed most of the Bears' offseason program. But he isn't slated to undergo any procedures this year.
"I say this humbly, if I had to build an organization, the first receiver I'm going to pick is myself; I have that much confidence in myself," Marshall said.
"With coach [Mike] Groh, I'm going to have my best year ever next year. I'm going to be healthy. I didn't even have a chance to prepare last year. I hit my stride Week 9, Week 10 in the season. Now I get a whole offseason. I really believe it's going to be my best year ever."
After setting Bears records and career highs with 118 receptions for 1,508 yards in 2012, Marshall caught 100 passes for 1,295 yards and a personal-best 12 TDs in 2013. He looks forward to more success with quarterback Jay Cutler, who signed a seven-year contract extension last Thursday.
"For all of us, it's stability, it's security," Marshall said. "We get to move forward together. Whenever you have change, it always sets back the organization. But forget Jay Cutler. Let's talk about Phil Emery, the general manager. I love the way he works. How surprising is it that right after the season he has these deals done, three guys done? [Cutler], [Matt] Slauson, Tim Jennings."
