People will debate what the problems are with Justin Fields. Some argue his inability to take more layup plays, accepting the shorter yardage throws. His constant decisions to hold the ball, hoping for that big shot down the field, is a big reason why he’s taking an alarming number of shots each week. Others blame the offensive line for not being talented enough to protect. Both sides’ arguments have truth to them. It doesn’t change the facts.
Fields is getting beat up.
The former 1st round pick has appeared in 18 games so far in his NFL career. He’s been sacked a total of 59 times across that stretch. That is an average of 3.27 per game. For context, most quarterbacks in the NFL never reach beyond the 3.0 mark. Only one of note has ever been in the same ballpark as Fields, and it’s not a name Bears fans probably want to hear.
That is David Carr.
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The older brother of Raiders star Derek Carr, he was the #1 overall pick in 2002 by the Houston Texans. His potential was massive. Scouts loved him. Houston then allowed him to get sacked 81 times in his first 18 games. Carr later admitted the frequent hits led to him scrambling far more often rather than trying to work from the pocket. He looked more skittish and shell-shocked as the weeks went on. Eventually, the Texans were forced to move on, realizing he’d never fulfill his potential.
This is the greatest fear many have about Fields. That the hits will break his mind before the team can get him proper help.
How the Bears can help Justin Fields.
There is an important lesson to be learned about Carr. People forget the Texans organization’s mistake in trying to build around him. Think about this. He was sacked 74 times during his rookie season. Their first three draft picks the following off-season went wide receiver, tight end, and linebacker. Not a single offensive lineman. In 2004, they went defensive back, linebacker, and defensive back. In 2005, they went defensive tackle, running back, and wide receiver.
That is malpractice of the highest order. You have the most sacked quarterback in the NFL by a country mile and can’t be bothered to invest a single 1st round pick in the offensive line during the crucial years of his development. The Chicago Bears can’t afford to make the same mistake. They did add Teven Jenkins in the 2nd round last year. He’s settling in nicely at guard. It isn’t enough. GM Ryan Poles needs more bodies.
Chicago will be back in the 1st round next April. They’ll also have over $100 million in salary cap space. It is a prime opportunity to get Justin Fields more protection. If they pass it up, they’ll have nobody to blame but themselves when the hits inevitably break the young quarterback.
When a person moves they begin picking up the local stuff and also their teams rarely show up on tv. They can become a fan of local teams without leaving their original favorites. It gets complicated but that just comes with the territory of moving. It’s not a loyalty thing.
I believe David had better not go to a Bears game or a Bears bar and announce who he is. Not winning over many people. Must be a New Yorker and former Jets/Giants fan. Since we all know he switched teams so he is not a real fan. No loyalty so go be a fudge packer
He isn’t developing fast and that’s a fact. However, one thing for certain is that each and every QB you compare has a better oline or at least better weapons. If we win, half of this conversation doesn’t happen. Any number one or number two receiver in the league makes one of those catches in the end zone at the end of the game. The play to the tight end in the first half, is caught by any tight end not on the bears. Again, I completely agree that his processing isn’t where “we” want it but if you have… Read more »
Yea, I mean Josh Allen and Justin Fields both have elbows, so they are very obviously on the same career path. Wait, they both have thumbs too??? Holy sh!t, Fields is CLEARLY Josh Allen 2.0!! With those similarities how does everyone not see it???? Lol.
Preach