Former Bears Scout Reveals Why Justin Fields Likely Stays

Justin Fields is fighting for his livelihood over the final five games of 2023. He's had some really encouraging moments this season, like the back-to-back games with four touchdown passes. He remains a ridiculous athlete who can gash defenses with his legs. However, consistency still eludes him. The Chicago Bears quarterback hasn't thrown more than one touchdown in a game outside of those two against Washington and Denver. It makes evaluating him even more difficult. People are split on whether the organization should move on.

Plenty of people, including those who have worked in the NFL, say if the Bears end up with the #1 or #2 picks, they're taking a quarterback. There is nothing Fields can do. Former scouting director Greg Gabriel isn't so sure about that. Based on what he's seen the past few weeks, it has become evident Fields has improved. Many of the issues that plagued him last year have been smoothed out. In truth, Gabriel told Bears Barroom two reasons why Fields staying is a stronger possibility than people think.

1. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy appears to be the bigger problem.
2. It would allow GM Ryan Poles to once again trade down.

Justin Fields controls his own destiny.

The general belief is if he can string together some solid outings and win a few of the remaining games, it would be enough to convince the organization to run it back. Poles already traded the #1 pick once before. The results have been excellent thus far. D.J. Moore is playing like a star at wide receiver. Darnell Wright looks like a solid long-term starter at right tackle. The Bears got that along with future 1st and future 2nd round picks. There is no doubt the package offers for Caleb Williams or Drake Maye would be significantly higher given the number of quarterback-needy teams next off-season.

Everything comes down to the obvious question. Is there a quarterback in this 2024 class that looks like a clear upgrade over Justin Fields? Poles and his scouts likely don't have that answer yet. They're still in the evaluation process. Answers likely won't be forthcoming until January. By then, Fields will have made his case one way or the other. If the Bears didn't see enough of what they hoped for, then a change is likely. On the other hand, if the QB finishes strong, the top of the draft will get interesting in a hurry.