Insider Reveals Ryan Poles' Plans At Quarterback For Bears

Three games remain in what has been a frustrating 2023 season for the Chicago Bears. They are 5-9, a slight improvement from last year, but anybody with eyes knows this team should be 8-6. Those three brutal 4th quarter collapses against Denver, Detroit, and now Cleveland are going to keep many at Halas Hall up at night. It was another reminder that the current formula for this team can't remain the same in 2024. Whether it's Matt Eberflus, Justin Fields, or both, something must change. GM Ryan Poles is the one who will make that decision.

He has offered a public vote of support for both men all season, which isn't surprising. Everybody knows his feelings behind closed doors are probably different. Longtime NFL insider Adam Caplan said as much in his latest column for Pro Football Network. He came right out and said one thing. If the Bears land the #1 pick in the 2024 draft and USC quarterback Caleb Williams checks all the boxes in the interview process, he will be the team's selection next April.

"Chicago Bears Won’t Pass on Caleb Williams

Bears GM Ryan Poles didn’t draft Justin Fields, so there’s no allegiance to the dual-threat QB. If USC star QB Caleb Williams checks out well during the pre-draft process, he will be the selection for the Bears with the No. 1 overall pick that Chicago received from Carolina."

Ryan Poles appears to have seen enough.

People can find arguments in favor of Fields for days. There is no denying the guy is a freak athlete capable of eye-popping plays. Yet a few things remain impossible to ignore. He's on course to finish another season with a passer rating below 90 and an average passing yards per game below 200. He has failed to throw two touchdowns in all but two games this season. The athleticism is excellent. The lack of consistency is not. That, more than anything, is why Poles might be ready to move on.

Yes, the contract situation is another factor. Getting a fresh four-year deal for cheap money is appealing as QB contracts continue to become more and more expensive. It would give Ryan Poles more time to fill out the roster with as much talent as possible. Williams has had success for three years in college. Most draft experts remain certain he has a bright NFL future. If he gives the Bears the right answers during interviews in the spring, the time for a change will happen.