Justin Fields on Sync with WR DJ Moore: The Bond Developed 'Rapidly' for the Bears
Just a few weeks back, when the Bears' Offseason Training Activities (OTAs) kicked off, wide receiver DJ Moore described his on-field rapport with quarterback Justin Fields as "still under construction." Moore, who's now the Bears' top receiver, forecasted that by the time the team regroups for the training camp, the QB-receiver duo would have fully grasped the subtle nuances that define a successful partnership.
However, if the final day of the minicamp was anything to go by, Fields and Moore are not just on track but possibly even ahead in fostering their on-field chemistry.
Fields shared, "It did come on quickly. I didn't really expect anything because it's different for each guy, but I feel like with DJ, his body language is pretty easy to read." He added, "Of course, he has a lot of experience...He's played a lot of football, so he knows different coverages really well... And you know, the chemistry has really picked up."
This Thursday's practice centered on the red zone, where Coach Matt Eberflus emphasized precision on Fields' tight-window throws. However, the overall spring focus for Chicago's offense has been honing the deep passing game.
Eberflus stated, "When teams line up in single-high or they line up in single coverages, we're going to take our shots. That's really been the theme all offseason."
Moore, who finished last season among the top ten in receptions of 20 yards or more, will play a key role in this strategy. Fields, with his track record of excellent deep ball accuracy, is focusing on syncing up with his primary receiver.
The Bears, who had the least effective passing attack in the NFL in 2022 with an average of 130.5 yards per game, are progressively strengthening their receiving line. Apart from Moore, they brought in wide receiver Chase Claypool from Pittsburgh and drafted Cincinnati's Tyler Scott.
However, injuries have kept Claypool and Darnell Mooney, the team's leading receiver in 2022, away from spring practice. The synergy Fields has developed with Moore needs to be replicated with these players too, something that will likely have to wait until training camp.
Defensive tackle Justin Jones spoke about Fields and Moore's budding partnership, saying, "That one and two [Fields and Moore] connection is going to be crazy this year...DJ Moore is a great addition. He's made some amazing catches this OTAs... He can beat man, press, any type of coverage you throw at him, double teams, he's running right by guys, hitting them with double moves."
This early display of timing and trust between Fields and Moore is what the Bears hope will drive their offense forward in Fields' third season.
