Justin Fields is a competitor. He wants to win. He wants to be great. However, it’s also clear by now that the Chicago Bears quarterback is a realist too. It doesn’t take him long to recognize where things are regarding the offense. Multiple times this offseason, he stated how many problems there was last season, from the lack of clarity on who the leader was to the communication issues. Many players keep an optimistic mindset whenever asked about their side of the ball.
Not Fields. While he hasn’t lost his trademark confidence, he also understands his situation. GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus have entirely overturned the roster. The wide receiver depth chart is completely overhauled, while the offensive line saw numerous changes too. On top of that, Luke Getsy brings a new system from Green Bay. So it shouldn’t have been a surprise when Fields shot down the idea that he’s already anxious for the season to start. He knows that he and the offense aren’t anywhere close to ready yet.
Justin Fields gets it, and that’s incredibly encouraging.
Most reports out of Halas Hall sound familiar. Fields and the offense struggled to make headway against the defense. This should not be a surprise. Defenses are often ahead of offenses this time of year. The Bears still have a talent disparity between the two sides of the ball. One pressing issue is limited runs in drills, which means no play action. Considering how vital that will be in Getsy’s scheme, not having it makes life far easier for the defense.
Facts are facts. Justin Fields isn’t ready yet. He doesn’t have much chemistry with his new receivers aside from Darnell Mooney. His offensive line only has two certain starters. Three other spots remain in flux. Asking him to pick apart a veteran defense in those conditions with limited knowledge of the new system is too much. He is confident the offense can get there. It’s a matter of time, hard work, and repetition.
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Good things will happen once everybody is on the same page and pulling in the same direction. Until then, fans must try to stay patient.
