Justin Fields understands that his future with the Chicago Bears is uncertain, but he's not letting it overwhelm him.
You may still have questions about whether Justin Fields is the long-term answer for the Chicago Bears, or perhaps you don't have a clear stance either way. However, one thing is undeniable: Fields possesses a strong understanding of the dynamics at play.
He acknowledges the business aspect of the game and is likely aware that the Bears are positioned to potentially select a top quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft, possibly irrespective of his performance over the remaining five games of the season, especially if the Carolina Panthers provide them with an opportunity to do so.
Fields also recognizes that the key to changing perceptions or attracting interest in the trade market during the offseason is to maintain his composure and focus.
During a recent press conference, when asked about the external pressures regarding his future and whether he believes his situation in Chicago has been equitable, Fields responded candidly, revealing a perspective that may speak volumes. "I mean, life isn't fair," Fields stated. "So personally, I'm concentrating on what's within my control, and the rest is in God's hands."
He continued, "Whether I'm here next year or not, football doesn't define who I am as a person... I know that God's got me, and I'm going to be fine. I'm incredibly fortunate to be in the position I'm in, and I think a million people would love to be in my shoes right now. So, I'm not taking that for granted and am making the most of every moment I have."
Fields echoed similar sentiments following the Bears' challenging loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 3, a low point in the team's early-season struggles. Since then, the third-year quarterback has exhibited significant improvement, although the team's record in his starts remains at 2-3.
With only five games left in the 2023 season, it almost appears as though Fields must either win or face the possibility of being traded. Even that may not be enough to deter the Bears from considering options like Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, who are available on rookie quarterback contracts and could complement an emerging young roster.
This stark reality is not lost on Fields, and although he may not explicitly state it, he appears to understand the situation well.
Nonetheless, there's an intangible quality about Fields that is commendable and suggests he has the potential for success in the NFL.
Among the eight quarterbacks selected in the first three rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields and Trevor Lawrence (the No. 1 overall pick) are the only two unquestioned starters remaining. Mac Jones seems unlikely to return as a starter for the New England Patriots, Trey Lance has been traded to Dallas and now serves as a backup to Dak Prescott, and Zach Wilson's starting position in New York is uncertain.
Fields faced the most challenging combination of coaching, roster, and overall circumstances among these quarterbacks, even having to fend off trade rumors for the No. 1 overall pick last year. Undoubtedly, many others in his position would not have thrived. Nevertheless, Fields consistently showcases his talent and has done so more consistently over his past five games.
If he can continue this level of performance for another five games and help the Bears finish the season strongly, say with a 4-1 record, he might make Chicago think twice before moving on. A victory against the Detroit Lions on Sunday could be a significant step in that direction. While there are certainly beatable opponents in their upcoming matchups, facing the top-ranked Cleveland Browns defense will provide a true test of Fields' ability to elevate the Bears.
Whether Fields remains a Bear beyond this season or not, he has demonstrated the right mentality to have a successful and enduring career in the NFL.
| POLL | ||
7 DECEMBRE | 27 ANSWERS Justin Fields understands that his future with the Chicago Bears is uncertain, but he's not letting it overwhelm him. Is Justin Fields the franchise guy for the Bears? | ||
| yes | 14 | 51.9 % |
| no | 13 | 48.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
