Justin Fields expresses regret over his 'cautious' strategy, which contributed to the Bears' defeat against the Packers.
Justin Fields faces criticism in the wake of the Bears' crushing 38-20 defeat to the Packers in Week 1.
Though the team's offensive strategy and play-calling have been in the firing line, Fields himself missed or opted out of some critical throws. Addressing the media on Wednesday, he acknowledged adopting a cautious stance during the game and spoke about potentially taking more risks. Fields said, "I did find myself being overly cautious at times, especially when we have talents like DJ and Chase on the flanks. They're adept at playmaking and can usually secure those 50-50 balls. I need to provide them with more opportunities down the pitch."
Fields wasn't blindsided by the Packers predominantly adopting a zone defense. As per PFF, the Packers resorted to man coverage on just a solitary occasion.
Fields attributed some of his cautiousness to the Packers' defensive style. He said, "Green Bay's defense is structured to entice quarterbacks into opting for those checkdowns, compelling you to progress downfield. That's the blueprint of most contemporary NFL defenses; minimize explosive plays, avoid deep shots. But it's essential for us to make calculated deep plays throughout. Sometimes, it just means a receiver needs to secure a contested ball for a pivotal play."
Fields' observations align with an emerging trend in the NFL, wherein defenses are actively seeking to counteract deep throws from influential quarterbacks, compelling them to employ shorter passes.
An analysis by ESPN's Brooke Pryor indicated that during Week 1, only 9.2% of the throws were long shots. The mean air distance for each target during Week 1 was 7.1 yards, while Fields' was 4.1.
Though the Packers' game plan was a factor in Fields' approach, he is aware of the need to be more assertive when opportunities present themselves.
Fields emphasized the importance of providing star wideout DJ Moore with more chances, noting, "When we have single coverages on the flanks and the safety is centralized, I should make those throws."
The Bears have also urged Fields to maintain focus downfield when evading tacklers. Coach Matt Eberflus said, "It's about seizing opportunities. If it's there, make the throw. If not, move on. We'll keep working on it."
Fields recognized a missed chance on Sunday when he opted for a short pass to Khalil Herbert over a potential deep throw to Moore.
Facing the seasoned Buccaneers' defense in Tampa, led by Todd Bowles, Fields will need to meld caution with aggression if the Bears aim to end Week 2 with a 1-1 tally.
