Here is why the Bears are sitting Justin Fields
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus has confirmed that quarterback Justin Fields will be sitting out the upcoming preseason game, along with other selected starters. Although Fields was not thrilled with the decision, Eberflus defended it based on the team's recent joint practice with the Indianapolis Colts.
"We're not playing him and the selected starters we've chosen due to the work we've done here," Eberflus stated, referencing the two days of intense practice with the Colts. "We made that decision last night, and that's what we're sticking with."
The practices were marked by physicality, including some shoving and fighting on Thursday. Eberflus was not pleased and vowed to penalize the involved parties. Nonetheless, the practices were deemed valuable enough to allow Fields and some starters to skip Saturday's preseason game.
"It's invaluable," Eberflus noted. "Shane (Colts coach) and I discussed it, and it's like having two extra preseason games in a safe environment." He added that he would do it again next week if allowed and finds it beneficial.
Eberflus clarified that this approach might not be a staple in future preseasons, and the decision on whether to play starters in the third preseason game against Buffalo on August 26 will be made later.
Upon informing Fields of the decision, Eberflus said the reaction was as expected. "He always wants to play," he said. "He's a competitor, an elite competitor. He wants to compete every single down, every single play he can. But we're going to do what's best for the football team."
Eberflus expressed confidence in Fields' readiness for the regular opener against Green Bay on September 10, based on his practice performance against the Colts. He highlighted Fields' 8-for-8 with four touchdowns in a 7-on-7 on Thursday as a testament to his progress.
In the practice, cornerback Kenny Moore, a former Colts player under Eberflus, blitzed Fields and knocked the ball from his hand on a pass play, which isn't permitted. Eberflus addressed Moore, reminding him of the need to protect quarterbacks during practice.
"I told Kenny after the play, 'You're athletic enough to move out of that way' and veer from that, and he agreed," Eberflus said. "We just need to do a good job of staying away from both (teams') quarterbacks and keeping them safe."
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18 AOUT | 98 ANSWERS Here is why the Bears are sitting Justin Fields Are you ready for FOOTBALL SEASON? | ||
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