Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports caused a stir recently when he spoke to several GMs around the NFL, asking them about the Chicago Bears’ quarterback situation. Should they stay the course with Justin Fields or utilize what will likely be the #1 overall pick to grab a replacement? There was no debate in their minds. Every single one of them said they’d trade Fields and draft a new quarterback. While they acknowledge the former 11th overall pick has shown some improvement as a passer this year, it hasn’t been nearly enough to justify passing on a prospect like USC star Caleb Williams.
Here is where it gets interesting. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune is one of the most well-connected insiders around the team. He went on Mully & Haugh for 670 The Score to discuss Robinson’s article. His comments were eye-opening. Based on the conversations he’s had, he feels confident that given where things stand, it is likely the Bears will move on from Fields next spring. Not only that, but unlike for many fans, they won’t see it as a difficult decision either.
This suggests the opinions on him inside Halas Hall aren’t nearly as glowing as in some corners of the media.
Yes, he is still a dangerous threat on the ground. Such things can’t be taught. However, such things don’t usually determine who wins the Super Bowl. It comes down to which QB can make enough big throws from the pocket. Fields still isn’t doing that. His 63.5% completion rate is below the league average. He’s barely averaging 201 yards passing per game and has taken 32 sacks in nine games. That can’t be blamed on the offensive line this time. Their protection has been steady most of the year. Fields gets himself into trouble by constantly holding the ball too long.
This also doesn’t include the 35 fumbles he has in his career or the 13 games he’s missed with various injuries. Is it really so surprising that Poles might want a quarterback who is less reckless with the football and can protect himself better? It always felt like the Bears’ general manager would prefer to find his own guy when the time was right. He stuck with Justin Fields this year because he earned the chance but also because the 2023 draft class didn’t impress him.
By most accounts, the 2024 class is far stronger. Poles will have his choice of anybody he wants. This time, he is unlikely to pass on it.
