The trade return involving Mac Jones indicates that the Chicago Bears might be left with only two unfavorable choices regarding Justin Fields.
Another member of the highly acclaimed 2021 NFL Draft quarterback class found himself traded on Sunday, while another remains in limbo, awaiting a team willing to meet the asking price.
The New England Patriots parted ways with Mac Jones on Sunday, shipping him off to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a mere sixth-round pick, as reported by multiple media outlets. The modest return for Jones, who now settles into a backup role in Jacksonville, sheds light on the predicament facing the Chicago Bears as they weigh their options with quarterback Justin Fields.
Jones made an impressive start to his NFL career, earning Pro Bowl honors in his rookie season by throwing for 3,801 yards and 22 touchdowns, finishing as runner-up in the Offensive Rookie of the Year race. However, his trajectory took a downturn in New England due to coaching changes and other factors.
While the Patriots, who are expected to select a quarterback with the third overall pick, were content to offload Jones for whatever they could get, the Bears find themselves in a different situation, still holding out hope for a favorable deal for Fields, which appears elusive.
Fields has shown glimpses of promise during his tenure with the Bears, displaying rare athleticism but struggling with consistency as a passer. Additionally, concerns about durability and his contract status add further complications to his trade prospects.
Despite Fields' potential, the market sentiment suggests that the Bears may not receive the desired value in return for the 25-year-old quarterback. Comparatively, Jones' rookie season outshines anything Fields has achieved thus far, particularly in terms of passing efficiency.
Even amid a challenging 2023 season, Jones demonstrated better performance in the fourth quarter compared to Fields. Statistical analysis reveals Jones' superior performance in late-game situations, indicating a level of clutch play that Fields has yet to replicate.
While Fields possesses a higher ceiling than Jones, the current market dynamics suggest that his trade value may not be significantly higher. The ongoing soft market for quarterbacks underscores the Bears' dilemma, leaving them with two unpalatable options: accept a lesser return for Fields or hold onto him, hoping for better opportunities down the line.
As the NFL's legal tampering window opens and quarterback movement looms, the Bears must exercise patience while navigating Fields' uncertain future. However, the lukewarm demand for Fields and the prevailing market sentiment pose significant challenges for the Bears as they contemplate their next move.
| POLL | ||
10 MARS | 256 ANSWERS The trade return involving Mac Jones indicates that the Chicago Bears might be left with only two unfavorable choices regarding Justin Fields. Is Justin Fields going to get traded? | ||
| yes | 87 | 34 % |
| no | 169 | 66 % |
| List of polls | ||
