Justin Fields' Knowledge Sets Him Apart, According to Bears

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Vince Carbonneau
June 8, 2023 (9:34)

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As the 2023 NFL season approaches, all eyes are on the Chicago Bears' starting quarterback Justin Fields. He's about to enter his third season and is already impressing the coaching staff with his profound grasp of Luke Getsy's offense. With his second year in this system on the horizon, it's evident Fields' understanding of the game has matured significantly.

Luke Getsy, speaking after the Bears' final media-accessible OTA practice on Wednesday, June 7, couldn't help but sing the praises of Fields. He drew attention to Fields' diligence and unwavering focus since the closure of the 2022 season. The Bears' offensive coordinator for the second year noted how conversations with Fields concerning the offense and his growth potential have skyrocketed compared to last season.

"Justin is the epitome of dedication, excelling in every facet of his role � physically on the field, during training, and in the meeting room. His focus is unparalleled," Getsy stated. "Our current discussions about his potential growth and understanding of the offense have ascended to a new level compared to last year."

For the first time, Fields will have the chance to engage with the same offensive system for two consecutive seasons in 2023, a luxury he was denied in his first two seasons, during which he had to grapple with new playbooks and schemes. This continuity is anticipated to accelerate his development, particularly given the reinforced supporting cast around him, including the newly-acquired wide receiver, D.J. Moore.

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While the Bears will continue to evaluate Fields' physical enhancements during the upcoming mandatory minicamp and summer training camp, Getsy's observation of Fields' mental progress is promising. Fields is poised for significant advancement as an NFL passer in 2023.

Fields made a splash in 2022 with his explosive running ability, amassing the second-highest quarterback rushing yards (1,143) in NFL history, only surpassed by Lamar Jackson's MVP performance in 2019. But since then, Fields, the 2021 first-round pick, has expressed his eagerness to improve as a passer, focusing on short-to-mid-range accuracy and speed of execution.

Nonetheless, Getsy acknowledges the delicate balance required in shaping Fields. He aspires to enhance Fields' decision-making and pocket rhythm to bolster the team's passing offense, but without making Fields play in a rigidly systematic manner.

"There are instances on the record where he could have refrained from running, and even if it worked in our favor, there would have been a better choice, a superior approach," Getsy clarified. "Then again, there are moments when my advice might be different, but his instincts compel him to act otherwise. We have to respect that. I'm not going to make him a robot. I don't advocate that for any player. However, we can hone these instincts, improving our decision-making and trust in timing and rhythm. We'll progress from there."

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8 JUIN \| 24 ANSWERS Justin Fields' Knowledge Sets Him Apart, According to Bears Will Justin Fields make the pro bowl this season?
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