The Chicago Bears’ objective going into training camp was obvious. They were determined to help Justin Fields take the next step as a passer. That involved improving his weaponry with guys like D.J. Moore and Robert Tonyan while fortifying his protection with Darnell Wright and Nate Davis. Early signs are promising in both categories. However, it also fell on Fields to correct a lot of the issues that plagued him last season. That meant tightening his footwork, getting the ball out faster, and accepting checkdowns when available.
One of his more understated issues was two-fold: trouble throwing over the middle and also hitting receivers in the end zone for touchdowns. Of the 11 interceptions Fields threw in 2022, six of them came on passes over the middle. He also had a rough 77.2 passer rating in goal-to-go situations. Both categories need to improve if he’s to take that next step as a franchise quarterback. Fortunately, there are signs he’s improved in each. They so happened to fuse together in one electric moment at Family Fest on Sunday when Fields delivered his best throw of training camp to D.J. Moore.
Justin Fields isn’t there yet, but the gap is closing.
There is enough evidence at this point to suggest he has taken considerable steps forward as a passer. Moore himself stated as much during his latest press conference. Fields is making lots of checks without input from the coaches. He’s making off-script plays with his arm. Both were things he didn’t do enough last season. Luke Getsy said it best. The quarterback is seizing control of the offense. When something like that happens, it doesn’t take long for success to follow. Fields is finding his way.
Better still, his supporting cast finally looks more than serviceable. Moore has looked outstanding in camp from the start. Yet the biggest surprise is how well Chase Claypool keeps performing in every practice. He’s starting to resemble the player he was in 2020 and 2021. Darnell Mooney looks healthy. Cole Kmet and Tonyan have created some matchup problems. This might be a Bears quarterback’s best receiving corps in a decade. If Justin Fields gets better protection from his offensive line, there is no reason to think he can’t have a breakout season at this rate.
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