The Bears, who have shown significant improvement recently, now appear to be an attractive destination for a quarterback.
Entering this season, the Chicago Bears had multiple priorities to address. Of course, one key objective was to assess quarterback Justin Fields' potential as their long-term franchise signal-caller. However, the Bears were also in the midst of a multi-year rebuilding process under the leadership of general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus.
For much of the season, it seemed as though the Bears had made little progress from their dismal 3-14 campaign in 2022. The offense struggled to find its rhythm, and despite Eberflus' defensive expertise, the defense showed minimal improvement.
This changed when the Bears acquired edge rusher Montez Sweat at the trade deadline, sending a second-round pick to the Commanders to secure his services. They promptly signed Sweat to a lucrative four-year, $98 million contract, making him one of the highest-paid defensive ends in the league.
The impact of this acquisition was immediately apparent. Since Week 9, the Bears have fielded a top-five defense, recording 11 sacks during that period, compared to just 10 in the first eight weeks of the season. They currently rank fifth in total yards allowed per game, conceding only 272.2 yards. Additionally, their points per game allowed improved, placing them in the top 10 since Sweat's arrival.
Sweat's presence has not only resulted in his own sacks but has also created opportunities for other defenders along the front line. Against the Detroit Lions, defensive tackle Justin Jones enjoyed his first multi-sack game of the season.
The Bears have excelled against the run throughout the season, consistently ranking among the top two teams in rushing yards allowed per game. They have limited opponents to just 83.7 rushing yards per contest, trailing only the San Francisco 49ers in this category. Furthermore, the Bears have surged in takeaways, recording three or more in their last three games. Since Week 11, they lead the league in takeaways despite having played only three games during that span, thanks to their relentless pressure upfront.
Chicago has quietly assembled a formidable roster, with the defense finally showcasing the qualities of a defense-oriented head coach.
On the offensive side, improvements have also been evident compared to the previous season. The offensive line, once among the league's worst, has risen to the 19th rank in pass blocking grade, as per PFF. The linemen are now fully healthy, contributing to the team's success. The Bears boast a top-five rushing offense, largely due to Fields' mobility and a committee-based approach in the backfield. Thanks to the defense's ability to provide more opportunities, the Bears rank third in the league in time of possession, averaging 31:51 per game.
Wide receiver DJ Moore, acquired in a trade involving the 2023 first overall pick with Carolina, has been a standout performer. He ranks in the top 10 in receiving yards (1,071) and touchdowns (7) league-wide. Both of Chicago's top wide receivers, Moore and Darnell Mooney, are averaging more than 14 yards per reception, while tight end Cole Kmet is the second-leading receiver on the team with 548 yards and five touchdowns.
However, the most significant question mark remains quarterback Justin Fields. In nine games, Fields has displayed promise, with 1,810 yards, 13 touchdowns, and reduced interceptions. Nevertheless, he ranks 20th in completion rate and 23rd in interception rate. His average pass length is relatively short at 7.13 yards, and he relies on his receivers gaining yards after the catch. Fields' success rate stands at 40.4%, and his consistency has been a concern, leading to uncertainty about his future with the team.
Additionally, the Bears face a decision on whether to exercise Fields' fifth-year option this offseason, which would cost them $23.25 million. This decision may necessitate a subsequent long-term contract, which could exceed $40 million per year for a franchise quarterback. Such an investment is substantial for a player who has yet to dispel all doubts after 36 games in the league.
Alternatively, the Bears could opt to reset the quarterback position by using Carolina's first pick, which is expected to be first or second overall, to select a quarterback in the draft. This would provide them with control over a new quarterback for five years and potentially place a top college quarterback in a favorable situation for immediate success.
The Bears' rebuild is nearing completion, with the potential to become genuine contenders as soon as next season or 2025. However, the quarterback position remains the key factor in their success, while other aspects of the team have significantly improved.
| POLL | ||
11 DECEMBRE | 136 ANSWERS The Bears, who have shown significant improvement recently, now appear to be an attractive destination for a quarterback. Will The Bears sign another QB before next season? | ||
| yes | 41 | 30.1 % |
| No | 95 | 69.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
