There are high expectations for Bears quarterback Justin Fields in his third season, where many believe he can take a substantial leap forward in 2023.
After emerging as the NFL’s top rushing quarterback last season, Chicago has made moves to help jumpstart him in the passing game. The Bears upgraded his supporting cast (including wide receiver DJ Moore), as well as improved the offensive line and pass protection (with guard Nate Davis and rookie tackle Darnell Wright).
Pro Football Focus ranked all 32 starting quarterbacks ahead of the 2023 season, and Fields landed among the middle of the pack at No. 18. But he’s moved up from previous rankings by PFF.
Fields won himself a starting job last season with almost no help around him. New general manager Ryan Poles stripped the roster of talent around him, and Fields was still able to emerge as one of the most dynamic players in the league. His passing is still very much a work in progress, but last season his primary targets were tight end Cole Kmet and speedster Darnell Mooney. This is a huge year for Fields to show what he can do with more help.
Fields ranks behind two other NFC North quarterbacks in Minnesota’s Kirk Cousins (9th) and Detroit’s Jared Goff (16th) but ahead of Green Bay’s Jordan Love (26th).
If Fields takes the big leap forward many expect in 2023, he should skyrocket up PFF’s rankings and perhaps push for the top 10.
