As the Chicago Bears finish a disappointing 2023 season, all eyes turn to the future of young quarterback Justin Fields. Several reports have indicated that Fields’ future with the Bears is unclear, despite flashes of promise in his second year. With the Bears holding the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the team finds itself at a franchise-altering crossroads.
Bears GM Declines to Commit to Fields as 2024 Starter
In his end-of-season press conference on January 10th, Bears general manager Ryan Poles declined to fully commit to Fields as the team’s starting quarterback in 2024. When asked if Fields would be the starter, Poles responded “We’re going to do what’s best for the organization”. This echoes previous reports that the Bears had yet to decide on Fields’ future.
Poles did praise Fields’ growth and competitiveness. However, he made clear that all options are being considered with the top pick: “We’re wide open with that.”). Many speculate this includes potentially drafting a quarterback like Alabama’s Bryce Young or Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud.
Justin Fields 2023 Stats
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 2,242 |
| Passing TDs | 17 |
| INTs | 11 |
| Rushing Yards | 1,143 |
| Rushing TDs | 8 |
Fields “Gave It My All” But Bears Hold All the Cards
Fields responded to the uncertainty surrounding his future, saying “I gave it my all.” While he improved in year two, the Bears faltered to a 3-14 record. Fields believes he made strides, but understands the team’s predicament.
Ultimately, Poles and the front office will decide how to move forward. As laid out by The Ringer, the fate of Fields, head coach Matt Eberflus, and the entire Bears organization hangs in the balance this offseason. Poles holds the keys with ample cap space and draft capital to build the roster as he sees fits.
Looking Ahead: Key Offseason Dates for the Bears
The Bears have critical decisions ahead on personnel and coaching. Here are some key dates for the team this offseason:
- January 23: Deadline for underclassmen to declare for NFL draft
- February 6: Super Bowl LVIII played in Las Vegas
- February 28 – March 6: 2024 NFL Scouting Combine
- March 13: League year and free agency begin
- April 13: Potential franchise tag player deadline
- April 27-29: 2024 NFL Draft in Kansas City, MO
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The NFL Scouting Combine and draft will provide more clarity on the direction Poles wants to take. For now, fans anxiously await news on who will lead the Bears in 2024 and beyond.
Plenty of Suitors If Bears Decide to Trade Fields
Though his future remains uncertain, Fields should have plenty of trade suitors around the NFL if the Bears go in a different direction. Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers reportedly have interest. Certain teams and fanbases have even started recruiting Fields on social media amidst the rumors.
According to former Bears QB Jay Cutler, Fields showed enough promise in 2023 to deserve another shot: “The offensive game plans have been pretty bad…I think you have to give Fields another year with an offensive system that fits today’s NFL.”. Still, the Bears brass seems to have doubts, and failure to fully commit to Fields threatens to undermine his development.
Many around the league believe Fields has the talent if put in the right situation. Whether he gets that chance in Chicago remains to be seen.
Conclusion: Monumental Offseason Will Shape Bears Future
The 2024 offseason is undoubtedly monumental for the Bears organization. With specualtion swirling, Justin Fields’ future hangs in the balance as GM Ryan Poles weighs all options with the No. 1 overall draft pick. The team has critical decisions upcoming on personnel, coaching staff, and schematic direction. These choices will shape the trajectory of the franchise for years to come. stay tuned as the drama unfolds this offseason!
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