Justin Fields Shares Emotional Farewell Amid Uncertainty, Acknowledging Possible Conclusion of His Tenure as Bears Quarterback Following Packers Loss
After exiting Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, Justin Fields finds himself facing an offseason filled with uncertainty.
Throughout the season, the Bears' third-year quarterback emphasized the importance of staying focused on the present and not allowing external factors to disrupt his concentration. Fields believed that by continually striving for improvement and securing victories, the rest would naturally fall into place.
However, following the Bears' season-ending 17-9 loss to the Green Bay Packers, Fields no longer has a game plan to occupy his mind, nor an opponent to prepare for. What remains is a decision that will shape the future of the Bears, a decision solely in the hands of General Manager Ryan Poles: whether to stick with Fields or explore other options, such as trading him and selecting a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick.
This situation is not entirely new for Fields, who noted that he faced a similar level of uncertainty last offseason when the Bears possessed the No. 1 pick.
Fields reflected on the situation, saying, "The thing is, we had the same topics and stuff last year. It's not like we didn't have the No. 1 pick last year. It's going to be the same thing. Like I said, I control what I can control. I'm going to get healthy this offseason, spend time with my family, and get better. Like I said, we went through the same thing last year, we had the No. 1 pick, everybody was asking 'what if? What if? What if?' and nothing happened. I'm not saying that nothing might happen [this offseason] cause, shoot, we all don't know. But I'm not going to let the potential or what if, what if not stress me from enjoying life and going through my everyday life."
Fields and the Bears' offense struggled significantly in the game against Green Bay. With starting center Lucas Patrick and right guard Nate Davis missing, Fields was sacked five times, and the Packers managed 10 tackles for loss. Fields completed 11 of 16 passes for 148 yards, without any touchdowns or interceptions, and he rushed for just 27 yards.
This marked Fields' 19th game over the last two seasons where he failed to surpass the 200-yard passing mark and the 12th game over the past two seasons where he fell short of 200 combined passing and rushing yards.
Despite the challenges, Fields showcased growth as a passer during the season. His pocket presence improved, and his accuracy showed signs of improvement.
Fields remained optimistic, stating that he is "only getting better" after Sunday's loss. The 24-year-old expressed confidence in his growth during the season, believing that his best days are yet to come, whether they are in Chicago or elsewhere.
Throughout the last seven games, Fields did his utmost to present his case to Poles. The Bears had invested their faith in him last offseason when they traded the No. 1 pick to the Carolina Panthers, passing on the opportunity to select Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud. If the Bears choose a similar path this offseason, it would indicate a long-term commitment to Fields.
Fields shared his thoughts on this possibility, saying, "It would mean a lot. I have a pretty good relationship with Ryan and the guys upstairs. At the end of the day, this is a business. They have to make the tough decisions. My job is just to go out there and play my best. It would mean a lot to get that confirmation from them and just really send a message that they trust me to lead this team and be the quarterback."
Fields currently holds a 10-28 record as a starter in his career with the Bears. He has faced a lack of continuity, playing on a roster that underwent significant changes in 2022 and had limited offensive talent beyond DJ Moore this season.
Nevertheless, Fields persevered and demonstrated his ability as a playmaker. His strong work ethic and character have earned him praise within Halas Hall. His progression as a passer is evident.
These are all factors working in Fields' favor, but it may not be enough if Poles determines that prospects like USC's Caleb Williams or North Carolina's Drake Maye offer the Bears greater potential at the quarterback position.
Despite the uncertainties, Fields is content with his efforts this season and acknowledges that the decision on his future is beyond his control. He shared, "I mean, I'm not sure. That decision is not in my hands. All I can control is what I did do. I gave it my all. Whether it's here or not, I have no regrets. To the City of Chicago, love ya'll. Appreciate the fans and the support from all the Bears, you know, and in case this is my last rodeo with ya'll, appreciate ya'll for everything."
With these words, Justin Fields, the Bears' quarterback, left the podium and headed towards the team bus within the depths of Lambeau Field. Outside the stadium, a group of dedicated Bears fans chanted, "We Want Fields," showing their support as he departed.
This ending may be fitting for the Fields era in Chicago � polarizing and captivating, with moments of brilliance and frustration. Throughout his tenure, Fields offered glimpses of his potential to elevate the Bears, even if that potential was never fully realized.
Sunday's game at Lambeau Field encapsulated much of Fields' journey � facing challenges in protection and play-calling, making impressive throws while occasionally missing opportunities. It was emblematic of Fields' story, where hope always lingered, even when he wasn't at his best.
In the freezing cold of Wisconsin, Bears fans waited, cheering for the quarterback they believe will lead their team to greatness, even after a disappointing offensive performance. They cheered for the player who instilled hope, even if that hope remains unfulfilled. Now, whether or not Fields gets the opportunity to fulfill that promise is no longer within his control.
| POLL | ||
9 JANVIER | 110 ANSWERS Justin Fields Shares Emotional Farewell Amid Uncertainty, Acknowledging Possible Conclusion of His Tenure as Bears Quarterback Following Packers Loss Is Justin Fields going to start next season as the Bears QB? | ||
| yes | 87 | 79.1 % |
| No | 23 | 20.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
