Justin Fields Just Became First Bears QB To End This 12-Year Drought

Justin Fields didn't have the most consistent season in 2022. He was utterly brilliant as a runner, claiming the second-most yards by a quarterback ever with 1,143. For a considerable stretch during the year, he had the Chicago Bears offense averaging close to 30 points per game. Unfortunately, that was hampered by his erratic passing. While his efficiency did improve from his rookie season, people couldn't overlook the league-low 149 yards per game he managed. Many continue to question whether he has the processing speed and accuracy to be a consistent NFL passer.

It seems other pro players aren't quite as unforgiving as fans and the media. The latest season of the NFL Top 100 is about to premiere. This is a countless of the 100 best current players in the league as voted on by the players themselves. It debuted back in 2011 and has been a consistent hit with fans ever since. Unsurprisingly, the voting hasn't been kind to the Bears for certain stretches, particularly on the offensive side. However, that is about to change as NFL Films leaked information that Fields made the list this year, making him the first quarterback in 12 years to achieve the feat.

He will rank somewhere between 100 and 91.

Justin Fields isn't complete yet, but he's already getting respect.

You must be doing something right when a defender like Nick Bosa sings your praises. Several defensive players have said Fields' legs terrify them. We're talking the same level as Lamar Jackson and Michael Vick. People talk about his passing yards. Yet the truth is he amassed 3,385 total yards with 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. If people consolidated those numbers into strictly the passing category, most would call it a very good season. He did this with one of the worst supporting casts in the NFL and a brand-new coaching staff.

Now he has familiarity with the offense, legitimate receiving options, and a retooled offensive line. It isn't crazy to think he will be much better than last season. His new receiving options won't compel him to run as much, making it hard for defenses to gameplan for him. This was the team's goal from the start. Nothing scares opponents more than a quarterback who can beat them however he wants. Justin Fields is on the cusp of reaching that level, and the rest of the league knows it.