CHICAGO -- Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler began working out with a handful of offensive teammates on Tuesday, according to a league source.

The group, which included roughly eight skill position players, took part in a basic workout which included running routes.

"It's important," coach Lovie Smith said during an interview on ESPN when told Cutler had planned the workouts. "The skill guys can get together, but what's really important right now is all of our players are out working out."

No defensive players were present.