Things are heating up with a significant quarterback shuffle across the NFL. Yet, many are amazed by the lack of movement from Chicago Bears star quarterback Justin Fields, who was expected to be in high demand. Perhaps it’s because he was never on the chopping block in the first place.
The Plan For Justin Fields Is Not What You Think
Chicago Bears Star Quarterback Justin Fields Might Not Be For Sale
To start, let’s rewind. In January, Bears General Manager Ryan Poles emphasized that he would have to be “blown away” to draft a quarterback. There’s no doubt that this year’s quarterback draft class stands out, with USC’s Caleb Williams emerging as the top quarterback prospect. Many NFL observers have hailed Williams as a “generational prospect” due to his ability to improvise and create opportunities out of seemingly impossible situations.
However, the Bears may be hesitant. Williams withheld his medical information from teams until his Pro Day and pushed back his meeting with the Bears, which might have left a wrong impression on Poles. Poles insist on wanting total conviction on Williams and other top quarterback prospects before deciding. Getting to know the person and not just the player is essential.
DJ Moore has his say on the QB situation 👀 pic.twitter.com/MKQizZc8QL
— PFF CHI Bears (@PFF_Bears) February 28, 2024
Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter stated that the Bears have not yet started the process to trade Justin Fields. During the NFL Combine, Poles mentioned he wanted to do Justin right because he understands Fields’ desire for clarity regarding his future. Doing Justin “right” might imply keeping him on the team to serve as the starting quarterback next season.
Going A Different Route
Justin Fields hasn’t been traded yet, and more teams are solidifying their quarterback plan for the upcoming season. It appears increasingly likely that any potential trade involving Fields may occur after the NFL Draft. If the Bears decide to retain Fields, one scenario involves them trading back one position with the Washington Commanders. The Commanders recently traded their quarterback, Sam Howell, to the Seattle Seahawks. This suggests the Commanders are eyeing a quarterback with their first-round selection. Given Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s ties to Caleb Williams, it’s evident that the Commanders would be more than happy to trade up and draft Williams. By trading back with the Commanders, the Bears can position themselves to draft another generational prospect in Marvin Harrison Jr.
Bottom Line On Justin Fields’ Situation
Honestly, no one knows what Poles is planning to do with Fields. Poles himself may not even have a definitive answer at this point. What remains undeniable is the talent Fields and Williams bring to the table, making this one of Ryan Poles’ hardest decisions as Bears General Manager. The weight of the choice and its potential ramifications for the Bears’ future success cannot be overstated. Given the weight of this decision, it’s understandable why the process of trading Fields has extended beyond initial expectations.
The Bears are approaching the situation with patience and deliberation. In doing so, they are prioritizing long-term success and stability, even if it means enduring a prolonged period of uncertainty and speculation.
Main Photo: [Mark Hoffman] – USA Today Sports
