GM Ryan Poles left everything on the table when asked during his end-of-year press conference. His goals for the Chicago Bears remain the same. He wants to build a strong roster through the draft and set this team up for long-term success. Most of that centers around what he does about Justin Fields and how he handles the #1 pick in the draft. He stated that the team loves Fields’ progress in 2022 but admitted he must improve as a passer. The odds of them picking a quarterback this April are remote. However, it isn’t impossible if one of them makes a strong enough impression. As for the #1 pick, he made it clear he’ll listen to all offers regarding a possible trade down.
Former GM Mike Tannenbaum stated on ESPN that Chicago should trade Fields. They’ll get a solid return for him and can restart with a quarterback of Poles’ choice. Longtime analyst Rich Eisen spoke with MMQB insider Albert Breer about this possibility on the Rich Eisen Show. While there is always a possibility they make a change, Breer doesn’t see it as likely. At least not this year.
This approach with Justin Fields makes far more sense.
The Bears saw most of what they wanted in 2022. Fields improved in most categories. He was far more dangerous as a runner, improved his overall efficiency, and made some strides as a processor. The problem is his numbers as a passer weren’t even below average. They were bad. He crossed 200 yards in a game only twice. Yes, the pass protection was terrible, and his wide receivers weren’t much better. Still, it shouldn’t be this difficult to throw for 200 yards in a game in today’s NFL. Poles openly said Fields must get better as a passer.
From what Breer said, the course forward is obvious. The Bears trade down from #1 and stockpile picks, including a future 1st rounder. They use those extra resources to build around Justin Fields, giving him a legitimate chance to shine in 2023. If he does, they can use those two 1sts in 2024 on further talent for his supporting cast. However, if he fails to progress, Poles would have the ammunition to make a run at one of the top quarterbacks in what many feel will be a loaded class next year.
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It is a sound, logical plan. Fields gets a fair chance, while Poles keeps his options open.
@Tom Waddle – The following is just 1 example of why you are despised on this board. You posted this below: “Other than Mooney, no WR would be better than WR4 on any other team durrr hurrrr”. You make this statement, which the vast majority of us on here wholeheartedly agree with, but at the same time, you blame Fields for the woes of the passing game. What is your major malfunction?
Trade Fields to Raiders for Carr and Raiders first round pick.
I love how delusional you Bears meatballs get in your defense of your favorite players. “Other than Mooney, no WR would be better than WR4 on any other team durrr hurrrr”.
Um, Byron Pringle was literally WR3 on the best offense in the league before coming to CHI.
You mean that Poles has cemented is job after failing to secure a physical for the O-lineman he prematurely signed causing other prospects to get bypassed. Rookie GM mistake. Then signing Claypool, and give a high 2nd rounder. Outside of Poles’ support network in Chicago signing Claypool was laughable. So, when this wanna be GM tells us Fields needs to improve his passing, any person with sense would counter with “What protection and minimal. NFL weapons are you giving hin, and are you sure Mr. Poles that all your coaches are as skilled and elite as you say?”
Love how everytime Bears get a franchise Qb, media, ex Gm’s ect want to pick them apart and have Bears start over. Field’s is everything you want, hard worker, open to impeoving,tough,plays hurt, never points finger or complains, probably the best natural leader in my 60 yr lifetime playing qb in Chicago. Kid had a horrible siruation his rookie yr, last yr better coaches but horrible o-line, wrs who other than Mooney wouldn’t even be higher than wr4 or wr5 on any other team in the league. How about surrounding him actual starters,give him a chance to play in same… Read more »