Matt Eberflus Didn't Mince Words About Justin Fields' Job Security

The Chicago Bears are 3-7 this season. It hasn't been the results they hoped for after what they felt was a strong free agency and draft period. Still, GM Ryan Poles stated his ongoing belief in head coach Matt Eberflus and the direction he has the team pointed in. Obviously, several fans don't agree. Putting that aside, another question needs answering down the stretch. That is Justin Fields. Eberflus made it official on Wednesday that the starting quarterback is expected to play on Sunday in Detroit.

That is good news. However, it doesn't settle the issue of the Bears' quarterback plans beyond 2023. Many think Fields hasn't done enough to earn the job, especially if the team lands a top-2 pick in next year's draft. Eberflus is notorious for keeping his answers vague during press conferences. Yet he was surprisingly forthright when asked whether the final seven games were enough time for Fields to show the organization he could be the guy. Eberflus' message was crystal clear.

"I think seven weeks is enough time to show consistency, you know, and be the high performer that we expect him to be. I know he has had some good performances along this year. Certainly the last few have been solid, and we expect consistency out of all our positions."

Matt Eberflus is being entirely fair.

He didn't say anything harsh, but his intent wasn't hard to read. While Fields has shown some good moments this season, he still hasn't showcased the consistency they hoped for. He had eight touchdowns and one interception in two games against Denver and Washington. In the other four games, he had three touchdowns and five interceptions. The Bears still don't know which player he is. That lack of consistency has haunted him since the beginning of last year. Unless he can find it over the remaining seven games, the odds are growing that he will get replaced next spring.

Fields has never been in this position before. He was the unquestioned guy in high school and again in college. Being the best player on the field is something he's known his entire life. That isn't the case anymore. There have been undeniable flashes of brilliance from the Bears QB, but they only last a short time. Matt Eberflus isn't in a position to make promises. He has supported Fields since they first got paired together, but the coach understands it's a bottom-line business. If the quarterback can't get it done, the organization must find one that can.