Justin Fields Reveals Why He and D.J. Moore Developed Rapid Chemistry
In what can only be described as a pleasant surprise from the Chicago Bears' spring practices, there's been a quick-fire rapport developing between quarterback Justin Fields and freshly signed wide receiver D.J. Moore. Generally, forming a meaningful bond between a quarterback and receiver requires a considerable stretch of time, but Fields and Moore seem to have skipped the introductory phase altogether. Since the commencement of OTAs, the duo has consistently executed successful plays, as if they've shared the field for numerous seasons already.
Delving into this unexpected development, Fields was queried about how such a harmonious pairing took shape so rapidly. Undeniably, Moore's impressive athletic skill set, encompassing speed, agility, and dependable hands, played a significant role. However, as Fields discovered, Moore's primary strength lies beyond his physical prowess.
«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. Early on we communicated on how we want each route ran and stuff like that. Of course, he has a lot of experience. He's been in the league for a good period of time now. He's played a lot of football, so he knows different coverages really well. That's one thing that I was kind of impressed about with the offense coming in and just understanding, seeing coverages really well on short routes and stuff like that. He's been great. And you know, the chemistry has really picked up.»
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The average spectator often falls into the misapprehension that only quarterbacks need to dissect defensive coverages before the snap. This is not the case. Receivers too need to comprehend the type of coverage they're facing, as it directly influences their route running. Moore's adeptness at reading coverage increases his opportunities of getting open, thus bolstering Fields' confidence in targeting him.
Fields found himself bereft of such luxury in the 2022 season. From his receiving roster then, Darnell Mooney was the only one demonstrating any consistent knack for reading and capitalizing on coverages. Other receivers, like Chase Claypool, Equanimeous St. Brown, Velus Jones, and Dante Pettis, fell short in this department. It's not since his college days with Chris Olave that Fields had such a perceptive partner on the field, which perhaps sheds light on the immediate chemistry with Moore.
The aspiration now is to foster similar understanding with another receiver in the squad. Mooney, already boasting a strong connection with Fields, is a promising candidate as he is expected to return from his ankle injury by the commencement of training camp. It'll then be down to the likes of Jones, Claypool, or rookie Tyler Scott to raise their game. If someone manages to step up to the plate, the Bears could possess one of their most potent passing attacks in the past decade, and maybe then, critics might finally ease off Fields.
Previously on LetsBearDown
| POLL |
JUNE 17 | 83 ANSWERS Justin Fields Reveals Why He and D.J. Moore Developed Rapid Chemistry Will D.J Moore lead the Bears in receiving yards this season? |
| Yes | 74 | 89.2 % |
| No | 9 | 10.8 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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