GM Ryan Poles left everything on the table when asked during his end-of-year press conference. His goals for the Chicago Bears remain the same. He wants to build a strong roster through the draft and set this team up for long-term success. Most of that centers around what he does about Justin Fields and how he handles the #1 pick in the draft. He stated that the team loves Fields’ progress in 2022 but admitted he must improve as a passer. The odds of them picking a quarterback this April are remote. However, it isn’t impossible if one of them makes a strong enough impression. As for the #1 pick, he made it clear he’ll listen to all offers regarding a possible trade down.
Former GM Mike Tannenbaum stated on ESPN that Chicago should trade Fields. They’ll get a solid return for him and can restart with a quarterback of Poles’ choice. Longtime analyst Rich Eisen spoke with MMQB insider Albert Breer about this possibility on the Rich Eisen Show. While there is always a possibility they make a change, Breer doesn’t see it as likely. At least not this year.
This approach with Justin Fields makes far more sense.
The Bears saw most of what they wanted in 2022. Fields improved in most categories. He was far more dangerous as a runner, improved his overall efficiency, and made some strides as a processor. The problem is his numbers as a passer weren’t even below average. They were bad. He crossed 200 yards in a game only twice. Yes, the pass protection was terrible, and his wide receivers weren’t much better. Still, it shouldn’t be this difficult to throw for 200 yards in a game in today’s NFL. Poles openly said Fields must get better as a passer.
From what Breer said, the course forward is obvious. The Bears trade down from #1 and stockpile picks, including a future 1st rounder. They use those extra resources to build around Justin Fields, giving him a legitimate chance to shine in 2023. If he does, they can use those two 1sts in 2024 on further talent for his supporting cast. However, if he fails to progress, Poles would have the ammunition to make a run at one of the top quarterbacks in what many feel will be a loaded class next year.
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It is a sound, logical plan. Fields gets a fair chance, while Poles keeps his options open.
