Rumor season is upon us. With the Chicago Bears holding the #1 overall pick, they will be the central focus of off-season buzz for months to come. Much of that chatter centers on Justin Fields. He completed his second season in Chicago and did well. He improved his passing efficiency from his rookie season and compiled 25 total touchdowns. His 1,143 rushing yards were the second-most in a season in NFL history. Despite the team’s unfortunate record, one would think Fields has earned a chance to continue as the starter.
Some aren’t so sure of that. They believe Fields’ troubling issues as a passer combined with the allure of having the #1 pick might compel GM Ryan Poles to make a change. There are no solid indications this is true. Not yet, anyway. Still, that hasn’t stopped some people from talking about it. Then comes Warren Sapp. The Hall of Fame defensive tackle appeared on the Bret Boone Podcast. When the topic of Fields came up, the 50-year-old dropped a bit of a bombshell nobody would’ve seen coming.
Would the Bears dare trade Justin Fields?
The odds say no. Widespread opinions are this quarterback class is good but not of the same caliber as two years ago. Most agree Fields is still the superior prospect. That said, one cannot dismiss several factors. Poles did not draft him. That isn’t the primary reason this could happen, but it should not be ignored. GMs tend to seek quarterbacks of their own unless the one in question is an undoubted superstar. Poles even said he would evaluate the QBs in this class with an open mind and might consider a change if “absolutely blown away.” So like it or not, a window exists.
Then there is the contract. The Bears are probably two years away from having their roster back to a point where it can compete for the playoffs. By then, Justin Fields will be near the end of his rookie contract. Everybody knows it becomes far harder to contend with a huge quarterback contract on the books. Drafting a rookie would reset the clock, giving Poles time to assemble a roster that can compete inside that timeline.
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Then there is the compensation. Trading Fields would likely net Chicago a 1st round pick and some additional selections. That would satisfy the team’s desire for flexibility while allowing them to keep the #1 spot.
Last but not least is Bryce Young himself.
Experts agree he is the most complete quarterback in this class. He’s intelligent, instinctive, accurate, and has an advanced pocket processor. The only problem is his size at 5’11, 195 lbs. That is problematic for some. Can he handle the physical demands of the NFL? If Poles thinks so, then the appeal is obvious.
Sapp has no reason to lie. It’s not like he has any allegiances one way or another. He’s well-connected around the NFL, knowing many players, coaches, and insiders personally. So his sources could be solid. Still, it is difficult to believe. Poles would be taking a gigantic risk by giving up a physical specimen like Fields after two years for Young, who doesn’t have nearly the same ceiling.
