Experts have danced around the subject for weeks. The Chicago Bears have a decision to make with Justin Fields. Either they keep him for a fourth season and use both of their projected top 10 picks on other positions in the 2024 draft, or they use the higher of the two on a new quarterback. The common argument is doing the latter allows GM Ryan Poles to reset the clock on the contract. A draft pick would mean the Bears have four years of cheap QB play, allowing them a chance to build a competitive roster.
Former NFL executive Joe Banner wasn’t quite as diplomatic with his statement. He came right out and said it. The Bears are now in a position where they are a quarterback away from being serious contenders in the NFC North.
What he says holds some truth. The defense has made significant strides over the past month, especially since Montez Sweat arrived at the trade deadline. Their offensive line appears to have three young players with significant ability in Teven Jenkins, Braxton Jones, and Darnell Wright. They could be a quality center away from being one of the top units in the NFC. D.J. Moore is a star at wide receiver. Cole Kmet is a solid tight end. They have pieces now. A capable quarter could put them into the playoff mix.
Fields hasn’t lost Chicago Bears support, but he is losing time.
Everything points to the Bears landing the #1 or #2 overall pick in the 2024 draft. There is a strong possibility they will have their pick of any quarterback in the class, and it’s expected to be a strong one. If GM Ryan Poles isn’t 100% convinced Fields is the guy by early January, it feels like he will choose to cut the cord and aim for a fresh face at the position. These final five games are critical for the embattled quarterback. He’s shown progress as a passer in recent weeks, but it hasn’t been enough. The same concerns linger, from his bad tendency to take sacks to his ugly 4th quarter turnovers.
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It isn’t only about putting up good numbers anymore. The Chicago Bears want to see Justin Fields win. He’s only won seven games in his career. Blaming the supporting cast and the coaching staff only goes so far. This team has played better football consistently for over a month. Franchise quarterbacks are capable of turning that reality into wins. The upcoming schedule is far from daunting. They almost beat Detroit a few weeks ago. Now the Bears will be at home. Cleveland and Atlanta have QB problems. Arizona isn’t a good team. Chicago can beat those teams.
People may not like Banner’s phrasing, but what he says is true. The Bears are solid quarterback play away from becoming dangerous.
