Justin Fields is gearing up for an important third season, where he’s looking to cement himself as the Bears’ franchise quarterback.
Fields emerged as one of the NFL’s most electric players with his elite rushing ability. But this season is all about taking a step forward in the passing game.
CBS Sports placed Fields in the third tier — “Intrigue with Question Marks,” which features younger rising stars. Basically, the future is bright but he’s still got to prove himself.
Fields can do it as a runner but we haven’t seen him do it as a pure passer yet. That’s not all his fault and the Bears did their best to fix things around him this offseason.
Fields didn’t have much to work with during his first two seasons in the league, and Chicago made it a point to build around him this offseason. That started with the acquisition of wide receiver DJ Moore, giving Fields a true No. 1 receiver that has helped other young quarterbacks take the next step.
There were also upgrades along the offensive line, which should help shore up a pass protection that allowed 55 sacks on Fields in 15 games last season.
If Fields can put it together as a passer, coupled with his running ability, there’s no doubt he’ll be considered a true dual-threat quarterback who could climb his way up those quarterback rankings.
