This one hurts. Justin Fields was the epitome of what it means to be a leader at the quarterback position. What the Chicago Bears did around Fields was horrible. With virtually no supporting cast and poor coaching, the Bears failed their former first-round pick. The way Fields handled the ups and downs, criticism, and pressure was unmatched. Being a quarterback for the Bears is one of the hardest things to do because there has been an extreme lack of talent at the position in Chicago. However, Fields never complained. He remained loyal until the end, expressing his desire to remain with the Chicago Bears.
However, it’s time for a new era in Chicago. Virtually everyone knows the Bears plan now is to draft the consensus top quarterback in this year’s draft class, Caleb Williams, with the first overall pick. Is this the right move for the Bears, and what’s the plan going forward without Fields at the helm?
🚨TRADE!🚨
Steelers trading for QB Justin Fields. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/jJuFBR7Rkc
— NFL (@NFL) March 16, 2024
Was Trading Star Quarterback Justin Fields The Right Move For The Chicago Bears?
Weighing The Options
There was a legitimate case to keep Justin Fields in Chicago. His rushing ability was breathtaking to watch. His captivating athleticism hinted at his potential for greatness. However, he had his flaws. He frequently held onto the ball for too long, leading to sacks or a loss of down. He also struggled to throw down the middle of the field due to his inability to be decisive. While there were moments of brilliance with electrifying runs or flawless deep throws, they were often overshadowed by instances where Fields hesitated to find an open receiver or was stripped of the ball while attempting to salvage a broken play.
It wasn’t solely about keeping Justin Fields. The Bears could have traded back with the first pick and received a plethora of picks and a highly talented player like they did last year. In 2023, the Bears had the first overall pick. Instead of drafting a quarterback with that pick, they traded back with the Carolina Panthers, and in doing so, received Darnell Wright, Keenan Allen (trade), Tyrique Stevenson, D.J. Moore, the first pick in 2024, and a second-rounder in 2025. They could have received an even bigger haul this year since Williams is a “generational prospect” and is highly regarded around the league to become a standout NFL quarterback.
At some point, those picks have to be used on someone who can legitimately change the franchise. General Manager Ryan Poles believes Williams can turn the Bears into a winning organization. It’s hard to fix something that’s broken, and with no stability coaching-wise, Fields needs a fresh start elsewhere. Drafting Williams resets the quarterback contract, giving Chicago extra leverage to spend money on other positions of need. The Bears need a new savior, and Caleb can be that guy.
It Was Time For A Fresh Start
The Bears are the only team in the NFL that has never had a quarterback throw for 4,000 yards. Yes, it’s embarrassing. As much as Bears fans love Justin Fields, he never threw for 4,000 yards. Based on Williams’ accolades at the collegiate level, there are high expectations for him. Not just to throw for 4,000+ yards but also to become the long-term answer at the quarterback position for the Bears.
Many believe Williams can become the first quarterback in Bears history to throw for over 4,000 yards. Not only that, but this is the best situation for a first-overall pick in the history of the NFL. Poles has assembled a roster ready to compete in the playoffs. It’s time for the Bears to take a chance on greatness.
Bears Players Reacting To Trading Justin Fields To The Steelers
Love you brother ❤️ https://t.co/xRkSjUwxkW pic.twitter.com/2jl3DqAuLC
— Tev (@TevenJenkins) March 17, 2024
Main Photo: Tork Mason – USA Today Sports
