Justin Fields Delivers Statement Performance At The Perfect Time

Word leaked from top insiders that Matt Eberflus was likely returning in 2024 as head coach of the Chicago Bears. It wasn't entirely surprising. He's had the defense on an upward trajectory for weeks, and the team was 6-5 in their last 11 games. The bigger question was Justin Fields. While he'd played fine over the past two months, many weren't ready to believe he deserved another season. That was particularly true if the Bears ended up with the #1 overall pick. GM Ryan Poles needed to see something. He needed a sign over the last two games to make his decision easier, one way or another.

Fields provided it.

Facing the Atlanta Falcons, with their top-10 defense and fighting for a playoff spot, the Bears quarterback turned in one of the best performances of his career. On a snowy day at Soldier Field, he threw for 268 yards, ran for 45, and had a TD pass and TD run, respectively. His ability to create ridiculous plays with his feet was again on full display, and he coupled that by doing an excellent job of protecting the football. It was the kind of game that gives you genuine hope he has indeed made meaningful progress.

Justin Fields has done the Bears a service one way or the other.

If Poles is committed to moving on, this strong finish may give the GM enough leverage to demand a 1st round pick in any trade another team tries to make for him. That would give the Bears three in 2024 or two in 2024 and two in 2025. On the other hand, his steady ascent means Chicago may have their guy. He's under control for one more season on his rookie contract with the 5th-year option also in their back pocket. They can use that time to let him keep developing while using their vast inventory of high draft choices to fortify the rest of the roster.

He can add another playmaking wide receiver. Maybe another pass rusher. Add a competent center. Plug one or two more holes, and this team could be a legitimate playoff contender next year. They have loads of momentum, with wins in five of their last seven games. Not only that, but they held double-digit leads in the 4th quarter of both losses. They've been clicking for almost two solid months. Justin Fields is a big part of that. Teammates love him. Coaches love him. It is difficult to find reasons not to keep him unless the team is 100% convinced one of the QBs in this upcoming draft is a can't-miss prospect.