With only two regular-season games left, the Bears have an opportunity to finish the second half of the year with a 6-2 record if they can defeat the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers in Weeks 17 and 18. Fields, however, stated that his sole focus is ending the 2023 campaign on a strong note.
"I've got too much to focus on today to worry about tomorrow," Fields commented during a media session on December 27, as reported by Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic.
Meanwhile, former NFL star and three-time Pro Bowler Shawne Merriman mentioned the Minnesota Vikings as one of the top landing spots for Fields during an appearance on the "Under Center Podcast." Merriman discussed various potential destinations for Fields, including the New York Jets, Washington Commanders, and the Vikings. He emphasized that Fields might benefit from a change of scenery due to the challenging situation he's facing with the Bears.
The Vikings have struggled with quarterback issues this season, starting four different quarterbacks, and Kirk Cousins is set to become a free agent following an Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season in Week 8.
The Bears are facing a complex decision regarding Fields as they head into the offseason. Fields has shown promise as a playmaker with excellent mobility and a strong arm. However, concerns about decision-making and accuracy persist. With Chicago likely to secure a high pick in the 2024 NFL Draft through a trade with the Carolina Panthers, they have the opportunity to select one of the highly regarded quarterback prospects in next year's draft.
General manager Ryan Poles faces a challenging decision, and Fields' performance in the remaining two games could have a significant impact on the team's choice in the offseason, potentially affecting the franchise's direction for years to come.
POLL | ||
29 DECEMBRE | 92 ANSWERS Justin Fields dismisses trade rumors, even as a division rival emerges as a potential destination. Is Justin Fields a top 20 QB in the NFL? | ||
Yes | 70 | 76.1 % |
No | 22 | 23.9 % |
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