Rather than considering a replacement for Justin Fields, should the Bears explore the possibility of pairing him with Marvin Harrison Jr.?
The Chicago Bears, with a record of 4-8, face a multitude of crucial decisions in the upcoming NFL offseason. None of these decisions loom larger than the choice between sticking with quarterback Justin Fields or drafting a replacement, potentially USC's Caleb Williams, using one of their two first-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. (Currently, Chicago holds the No. 1 and No. 4 picks in the draft.)
In the perspective of Keyshawn Johnson, cohost of "Undisputed," the Bears should remain committed to Fields and focus on enhancing their offense by selecting Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. His rationale is based on the belief that the Bears need to provide more offensive weapons, regardless of the quarterback, and have yet to create an environment conducive to Fields' success.
Johnson envisions the impact of having a receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr. alongside Fields, highlighting the potential improvement it could bring to the Bears' offense. He draws comparisons to other quarterbacks like Brock Purdy, who thrive with a strong supporting cast, emphasizing the importance of building a prosperous environment for Fields or any future quarterback.
He expressed confidence in general manager Ryan Poles' ability to make wise use of the draft picks, endorsing Harrison Jr. as the top choice, whether at the first or fourth pick.
In the eight starts he has made this season (Fields missed four starts due to a thumb injury), Fields has accumulated 1,587 passing yards, 12 passing touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 92.3 passer rating, with a completion rate of 64.4%. Fields' current passer rating and completion percentage represent career highs. Additionally, he has rushed for 400 yards and one touchdown in the season.
However, Fields has faced challenges, completing only 61% of his career passes and holding a career passer rating of 83.1. It's worth noting that Fields was selected with the No. 11 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the previous general manager, Ryan Pace, and head coach, Matt Nagy, who were subsequently fired after the 2021 season.
Marvin Harrison Jr., a standout from Ohio State, has impressive stats, averaging 72 receptions for 1,237 yards and 14 receiving touchdowns over the last two years. Pairing him with DJ Moore, who has consistently reached 1,000 receiving yards in recent seasons, could significantly bolster the Bears' receiving corps.
Alternatively, if the Bears opt for a quarterback, both Caleb Williams and Drake Maye from North Carolina possess elite skills, including strong arms and mobility. Caleb Williams, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, stands out in particular.
The Bears currently hold the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, a result of a blockbuster trade made with the 1-10 Carolina Panthers in the previous offseason.
| POLL | ||
29 NOVEMBRE | 65 ANSWERS Rather than considering a replacement for Justin Fields, should the Bears explore the possibility of pairing him with Marvin Harrison Jr.? Should the Bears draft a QB? | ||
| Yes | 15 | 23.1 % |
| No | 50 | 76.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
