Justin Fields was a bust by the end of September in the eyes of many. He hadn't made any notable progress since his inconsistent rookie year. Some were ready to pull the plug. The Chicago Bears were not. Head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy maintained confidence that Fields was headed in the right direction. He needed time to master the offense and learn to operate as a professional quarterback. Sure enough, things began to turn around in mid-October. Since Week 5, Fields has 20 total touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 97.4 passer rating. He's the third quarterback in NFL history to crack 1,000 yards rushing.
What impresses people the most is how he's been able to do all of this with arguably one of the worst supporting casts in the league. His wide receiver group and offensive line weren't overly talented, to begin with. Injuries have made matters even worse in recent weeks. His primary targets against Philadelphia last weekend were Byron Pringle, Dante Pettis, and Nsimba Webster. Right guard Teven Jenkins and left guard Cody Whitehair are both likely out for this Sunday against Buffalo. Yet the offense continues to be productive.
How? Former MVP quarterback Boomer Esiason stated it's all because of Fields. Don't be fooled by the okay-not-great numbers. The Bears have themselves a legit franchise quarterback. Esiason made that clear with his comments on 670 The Score.
Justin Fields can play. The rest is up to the Bears.
Specifically, it's up to GM Ryan Poles. His job is to build up the roster around his young quarterback. He's already seen the blueprint in action with the Kansas City Chiefs. They built a terrific supporting cast for Patrick Mahomes. Thus far, Poles' efforts have been mixed. Left tackle Braxton Jones looks like a keeper after snagging him in the 5th round. However, 3rd round wide receiver Velus Jones already appears to be a misfire. Hopes are high that trade acquisition Chase Claypool will become a significant contributor once he's healthy and has a chance to master the offense. The truth is, a lot more is needed.
The offensive line needs at least three new starters. Chicago still doesn't have a true #1 wide receiver, even with Claypool and Darnell Mooney in the mix. Justin Fields is doing so much with so little. That is what has people excited the most. If he's this good with little help, imagine what he could be when surrounded by other good players. Esiason and everybody else is dying to find out. We've already seen what it did for Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen. Fields is next on the list.
