Bears GM Displeased with RGIII's Remarks
Ryan Poles, the Bears' general manager, expressed displeasure at recent comments made by Robert Griffin III, which cast doubt on Chicago's intentions regarding the potential selection of former USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
During an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" on Tuesday, Poles conveyed his frustration with Griffin's remarks, citing his determination to instill a fresh culture in Chicago. Griffin, a former NFL quarterback turned ESPN analyst, had posted a video on social media earlier in the month advocating for Williams to emulate Eli Manning's strategy by refusing to play for the Bears if drafted by them. This suggestion came especially in light of Chicago trading quarterback Justin Fields to the Steelers for a mere conditional 2025 sixth-round pick.
"The comments bother me, to be frank, because our mission is to break a cycle," remarked the 36-year-old Poles during the interview with McAfee. "Similar to my experience in Kansas City with Coach Reid, we were brought in to initiate change, and we did just that. However, those past achievements seem forgotten now. My belief is firm that we're on the cusp of breaking this cycle, positioning the city for success and numerous victories. The past is irrelevant; our focus lies on the path ahead."
Griffin expressed admiration for Poles' offseason moves but criticized the Bears' handling of Fields' situation.
"With the developments surrounding Justin Fields, can Caleb Williams truly trust that this organization has his best interests at heart? Can he confidently envision his development within this team?" Griffin pondered. "I'm skeptical of that."
Griffin advocated for Williams to follow Manning's example, highlighting how the former Giants quarterback found success after expressing his desire not to play for the Chargers, who held the top pick in the 2004 draft.
Fields, who spent his initial three NFL seasons with the Bears, assumed the starting role in his rookie season after veteran Andy Dalton's injury in Week 2.
| POLL | ||
26 MARS | 67 ANSWERS Bears GM Displeased with RGIII's Remarks Do you believe NFL draft prospects should have the right to refuse playing for a team that drafts them? | ||
| yes | 8 | 11.9 % |
| No | 59 | 88.1 % |
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