Justin Fields has played better over his last few games. While his consistency remains a question mark, he’s had more highs than lows since the end of September. His pocket passing appears to have taken steps forward. He’s still a dangerous runner and seems to have found some confidence. However, many believe it isn’t enough. While progress has been made, the concerns that followed him into 2023 haven’t gone away. He still struggles with taking too many sacks and turns the ball over at the worst possible times.
Many believe if the Bears end up with the #1 overall pick, which looks more and more likely, that GM Ryan Poles will use the opportunity to make a change at quarterback. It feels like a great year to do so. Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are already considered top five locks. Heisman winner Jayden Daniels has an excellent chance to join them in the coming months. That said, one issue cannot be ignored in this Fields decision.
The desire of his teammates.
More specifically, it’s the desire of one key player. Wide receiver D.J. Moore has wasted no time establishing himself as the most dangerous weapon in Chicago’s arsenal. Keeping him happy is an obvious point of emphasis for the team. Based on his comments this past week, it doesn’t sound like he’s anxious for the Bears to part ways with Fields.
“He’s a dynamic player, dynamic quarterback,” Moore said. “I mean, we want him here. I’ve been having a great year with him, so that should speak volumes. I just leave what they do (in the front office) upstairs at the end of the day.
“He’s young. He’s going to still continue to grow and be better.”
Justin Fields clearly has the support of the locker room.
Nobody can question the guy’s leadership. He has the full support of teammates on both sides of the ball. Something like that shouldn’t be discounted. It is why the idea of staying the course and using the 2024 off-season to further fortify the roster around him holds so much weight. Imagine pairing Moore with Marvin Harrison Jr. and adding another dynamic pass rusher to the defense. It could give the Bears their most balanced and dangerous roster seen in years. Together with maybe some better coaching, Fields might finally flourish.
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Much of this still hinges on the remaining five games. If Justin Fields can deliver another one or two performances like he had against Washington and Denver, along with some wins, his case to stay will be that much stronger. The Bears haven’t made their decision yet. Evaluations remain ongoing. Poles isn’t prone to knee-jerk reactions. He is also open to the opinions of others, from scouts and coaches to fellow players. Don’t think Moore’s comments went unnoticed.
