Justin Fields' Preseason Start: What Luke Getsy Sees as the Value in the Young QB's Performance
In Green Bay, Luke Getsy was accustomed to watching veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers spend preseason games on the sidelines. But now, with the Chicago Bears and young QB Justin Fields at the helm, the scenario is entirely different.
This will be the second consecutive year that Fields will see action in the Bears' preseason opener, this time against the Tennessee Titans. For Getsy, this isn't just expected; it's a crucial part of Fields' development.
The Bears' offensive coordinator commented, "Well, yeah, the biggest difference is you're talking about a guy that was in Year 17 or whatever the heck it was by then. So I think this is just a much different situation. It's a quarterback in his second year in the offense, third year overall."
Last year's preseason opener saw Fields on the field for three possessions, with the third one extending into the second quarter. At a time when the offense was still coming together, every snap was a learning experience.
This year, the need for practice together remains apparent. Recent training sessions have seen some stumbles, like rookie tackle Darnell Wright's false start penalties. But these are growing pains, and Getsy believes the experience is "invaluable."
"I think it kind of falls back into the chemistry thing, right?" Getsy observed. "Getting that group, kind of for the first time. Having that experience for the first time. We just talked about Darnell (Wright). Just to put him in a uniform, get up, hear the cadence, hear the huddle, call, cadence. All that stuff is invaluable, so let's go get a crack at it. It will be good to get things started out the right way."
As for the injuries affecting the lineup, players like right guard starter Nate Davis, backup Lucas Patrick, and wide receiver Chase Claypool may not see action. Ja'Tyre Carter will continue to work with the first team in their absence.
When asked about Claypool's recent confrontations with Bears defensive backs, Getsy expressed enthusiasm, appreciating the competitive edge it brings. He said, "No, that's awesome. I think the competitors that they are and the pride to want to go win, right? It doesn't matter. They are your teammate, but in the moment, they are your competitor. I love it. As long as we don't ever cross a line. Maybe we've crossed a line once, but I think we were able to get back from that and then continue it. I think all that's important if you want to play a certain way that we want to play the game. Got to have that edge to you."
As the Bears head into their preseason opener, Getsy's perspective illuminates not just the value in Fields' participation but also the importance of fostering chemistry and a competitive spirit within the team. The preseason isn't just about warm-up; for the Bears, it's an essential part of their preparation for the regular season.
