The Chicago Bears traded quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, ushering in a new era in the Windy City.
While the trade itself wasn’t a surprise, the compensation Chicago received for Fields was a bit shocking. The Bears received a conditional sixth-round pick from the Steelers, which becomes a fourth rounder if Fields plays 51 percent of snaps this season.
Considering there was a belief Chicago could get a Day 2 pick for Fields, it didn’t make a lot of sense. It spoke to the belief around the league about Fields’ value. But it also sounds like destination played a key role, as well.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, there were at least four additional teams that inquired about trading for Fields. But Fields asked not to be traded there. He personally wanted to go to Pittsburgh, and that’s exactly what happened.
Important note on the Justin Fields trade: At least four additional teams inquired about trading for Fields, but Fields’ representation asked for him not to be traded there. He wanted the #Steelers, and the #Bears did right by him. https://t.co/jE65yV0jzm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 17, 2024
As for those four additional teams that showed interest, quarterback-needy teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants and New England Patriots. Given the Steelers traded Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, perhaps they were an option, as well.
While Fields won’t begin as the starter, it sounds like Fields wanted to go to a stable organization with the opportunity to start. (It certainly helps that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is a fan). He’ll serve as Russell Wilson’s backup, but there could be a chance for him to start and make a statement.
Meanwhile, Bears general manager Ryan Poles made good on his promise to do right by Fields. Not only did he trade him instead of dragging the process out another month, he sent him to the place he wanted.
