Chicago Bears fans are trying not to get carried away. They’ve been burned so many times in the past on the quarterback front. Cade McNown, Rex Grossman, Jay Cutler, and Mitch Trubisky all turning into major disappointments. Now it is Justin Fields who will be the latest to take on this massive challenge. He has a number of doubters. Some don’t think he has a fast enough processor. Others fear his Ohio State heritage. A program known for producing QB busts in the past.
None of this deterred the Bears brass. They still traded up in the draft to get him. Head coach Matt Nagy was convinced he is the sort of talent this organization needs. GM Ryan Pace and others soon fell in line. Thanks to some good fortune, everything came together. Now Fields is a Bear and reports out of Halas Hall indicate he is developing rapidly. So much in fact that even those inside the building can’t contain their excitement. Jeff Hughes of Da Bears Blog, who has solid sources around the team, put it in perspective through two notable tweets.
Am I overly excited about Justin Fields?
Yes.
Is that based on someone inside the building telling me the kid’s “got it”?
Yes.
— DaBearsBlog (@dabearsblog) August 5, 2021
The Bears thought they had the deal for Russell Wilson done.
A lot of people in that building thrilled it didn’t happen right now.
— DaBearsBlog (@dabearsblog) August 5, 2021
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That is saying a ton.
It was evident months ago the Bears came close to acquiring Russell Wilson. He wasn’t happy with his situation in Seattle. Pace made a strong push to acquire the All-Pro. In the end, Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll said no. That left few alternatives. The Bears would have to look towards the draft for answers. A month later, Fields was putting his cap on. Most saw it as a consolation prize.
Apparently not anymore. The team is beginning to think they encountered a blessing in disguise. The cost to acquire Wilson would’ve been immense. Far more than what they gave up for Fields. Not only that, but his massive contract would’ve come with him. Last but not least is the fact Wilson turns 33-years old in November. He might’ve made the Bears contenders for another 3-4 years, but at a potentially massive long-term cost.
Justin Fields could open things up for a decade or more
There is still a ton of proving to do for Fields. He hasn’t even played an actual game yet. Optimism and hope are great. They also don’t win football games. Sooner or later, the rookie will have to prove it in live action. That is what the Bears are seeking to prepare him for. Thus far his progress is undeniable. After some inconsistencies early in camp, the 11th overall pick had arguably his two best practices in a row this week.
Nothing seems to phase him. He operates with poise and calm. Rare commodities for a rookie. Combined with his obvious arm talent and mobility, it’s making life difficult on the defense. That is what is so scary. This is only the beginning. He will get better as the game slows down and he gains a firmer grasp of the offense.
All the more reason to wonder how he fell as far as he did.
The Bears certainly aren’t complaining. If anything, this turn of events may lead some of them to conduct rituals to the football gods. Even as the rest of the NFL remains focused on Aaron Rodgers, it’s hard not to feel like Chicago may finally be the epicenter of top quarterback play in the future.