Justin Fields got something that not every quarterback in the NFL enjoys. He received unfettered access to GM Ryan Poles during the pre-draft process. The two spent a weekend watching film together on various prospects they might like to add to the roster if an opportunity came. One of the players that Fields circled as someone he liked was Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones. A week later, Poles obliged his quarterback by taking him in the 3rd round.
It hasn’t taken the young quarterback long to realize his assessment was correct. Jones has already turned heads with his wide array of abilities through minicamps and OTAs. Everybody from coaches to beat writers has felt the need to mention it. Fields couldn’t help but express his intrigue at how explosive the rookie is. He even offered a subtle hint in his comments about what the Bears coaches likely have planned for the receiver this season.
“At rookie minicamp there was one play that stood out to me, he had a 10-yard dig route in and caught it and hit that second gear kick for a touchdown. I think he caught it at 10 yards and took it 60, so he’s a great run-after-the-catch guy. He’s going to pick up a lot of yards and is physical. He’s almost like a running back at receiver. Having him on the outside and putting the ball in his hands and letting him work will be great.”
It sounds like a logical approach to help Justin Fields.
Of course, the Bears will want to morph him into a wide receiver that can run a full route tree. However, that tends to take time. Until then, the smart thing to do would be to utilize his strengths. Tennessee got the most out of his skillset whenever they quickly got the ball in his hands. This mostly came via quick slants, bubble screens, and jet sweeps. Get him the ball and let his speed and natural running vision take over.
This is an element the Bears offense didn’t have last season. Receivers often had a hard time creating extra yards for themselves. It is clear Poles wanted to change that. Jones isn’t the only one capable of making plays after the catch. Byron Pringle did it several times for the Chiefs in Kansas City. Darnell Mooney flashed a ton of potential in that department during the second half of last season.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
Luke Getsy and his staff seem ready and willing to exploit it. Anything to make life easier for Justin Fields. More screens. More play action. Better YAC receivers. It’s all part of the plan.
