Ryan Poles Finally Detailed Why He Stuck With Justin Fields

By far, the biggest decision of the off-season by GM Ryan Poles was what to do with Justin Fields. His 2022 season was a mixed bag. While he was excellent as a runner, posting the second-best season ever by a quarterback, his passing was a different story. He barely managed 149 yards per game with 17 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Plenty of critics pointed out his skittishness in the pocket and inability to make quick decisions with the ball as reasons why he may never develop into a top passer.

The Chicago Bears had to choose. Either stick with Fields for another year or use their #1 overall pick on his replacement. Everybody knows the story from there. Poles kept Fields, trading the pick to Carolina for a bounty of extra picks as well as wide receiver D.J. Moore. He then spent considerable resources filling out the offensive roster with more talents like Robert Tonyan, Nate Davis, D'Onta Foreman, and Darnell Wright.

Pole has never given a detailed answer on why he went in this direction. That finally changed during an interview with Rich Eisen on his podcast. It came down to two factors: belief in Fields' ability to improve and the calculation that such a move could make the Bears better both now and in the future.

Ryan Poles feels confident in his decision.

It's not like it was a spur-of-the-moment thing. The Bears brass discussed the topic in detail for months. Many opinions were heard. Once done, the decision was made. There would be no looking back. It doesn't sound like Poles or head coach Matt Eberflus regret anything. Fields has looked much better in training camp this year. The ball is coming out faster, and he's sharper in drills. The football is rarely on the ground, indicating his improved accuracy. More than anything, it's his taking ownership of the offense itself that has everybody excited.

Of course, Ryan Poles will reserve judgment until after the season. He needs to see results on the field. Justin knows that. He's not ignorant of his situation. If he wants to establish himself as a franchise guy, he must prove he can beat teams with his arm. The Bears have had dangerous running quarterbacks in the past. Bobby Douglass was a trailblazer in the 1970s. He didn't last long despite setting records at the time. Why? He couldn't throw. Fans have far less patience these days. It is now or never for Fields.