Justin Fields Already Has Bears Coaches Buzzing About His Progress

GM Ryan Poles set out on a mission this off-season. He wanted to upgrade the offensive personnel on the Chicago Bears roster as much as possible. His intent was obvious. Everything must be about giving Justin Fields more help. Poles did some good work. He added D.J. Moore via trade and then took big, athletic right tackle Darnell Wright in the 1st round. Robert Tonyan provides a boost at tight end while Nate Davis fortifies their interior line. It feels like the talent and depth of this offense have taken multiple steps up.

However, that is only one part of the puzzle. Improving the supporting cast was vital, but much of this still depends on Fields himself. There is no denying the quarterback emerged as one of the most dangerous runners his position has ever seen last year. Yet, if he wants to join the ranks of the elite, he must evolve as a passer. From how his coaches have talked lately, progress has already been made. Matt Eberflus pointed out where it's most noticeable.

“He’s been really working on that, really good — in terms of the quick pass, drop-back pass, movement passes. And he’s really made some big strides in that area, coming so far on his own, and now coming into the Phase II, that first week.”

He isn't the only one who can see it. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy told the Bears media that Fields is drastically improved from where he was at this point last year.

Justin Fields was already showing signs of progress.

People tend to forget how good he looked from October 30th through Christmas Eve. Over that seven-game span, he completed 67.7% of his passes for 11 touchdowns and only four interceptions. He also ran for six more touchdowns. The only problem people had was the lack of passing yardage. He only crossed 200 yards in a game once over that stretch. It is an understandable concern. To win in this NFL, you must be able to put the ball in the air consistently. That wasn't possible last year.

Many think Justin Fields is simply not capable of doing so. Others have remained steadfast that his poor protection and subpar wide receivers played a big role in those struggles. Now both problems have been addressed. Davis and Wright should help fortify the protection. Moore, Darnell Mooney, and Chase Claypool give him a talented trio of targets. They also still have a strong stable of running backs led by Khalil Herbert, D'Onta Foreman, and Roschon Johnson.

There is also the fact he goes into the second season in the same offensive system. Everything points to him having a better year. If that proves true, the Bears are poised for big things in the near future.