The Justin Fields Trade Buzz Has Officially Entered Crazytown
When the Justin Fields trade speculation started last week, Chicago Bears fans realized the next few months would be migraine-inducing. By almost every measurement, the young quarterback improved in 2022. He became the most dangerous runner at his position in the league and made strides as a passer. Yes, he only threw for over 200 yards twice, but his efficiency took a step forward. With better protection and weapons, there is no reason to think he can’t take another leap in 2023. Plenty of current and former NFL people don’t see it.
Former GM Mike Tannenbaum and former president Joe Banner both stated the Bears should trade Fields and take a quarterback 1st overall in the draft. They don’t think Fields has shown anywhere close to enough progress as a passer to make you think he can carry this team deep into the playoffs. The media has inevitably picked up on this, leading to speculation about teams that may or may not be interested in Fields. Nick Wright of ESPN appeared on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. He thinks there is one team out there that would see Fields as a perfect fit for their offense while also presenting the Bears with the chance of a lifetime.
Justin Fields for Lamar Jackson doesn’t change much for the Bears.
People haven’t stopped and really assessed the Ravens quarterback. If one looks closely, one’ll notice his effectiveness has diminished since his excellent two-year run in 2019 and 2020. Over the past two seasons, Jackson has regressed as a passer. He’s completed 63% of his passes for 33 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, and an 88.9 passer rating. That isn’t too much better than what Fields accomplished in 2022. Not only that, but Jackson is starting to exhibit injury concerns. He’s now missed a combined ten games over the past two years with ankle and knee problems.
Then there is the contract issue. Yes, the Bears have tons of cap space. That doesn’t mean they’re prepared to give Jackson what he wants. Reports indicate he’s seeking a contract similar to Deshaun Watson at five years, $230 million fully guaranteed. Giving that to a Patrick Mahomes or a Joe Burrow might make sense. Giving it to a guy who isn’t a premier passer and whose body might be breaking down seems inadvisable. Justin Fields is three years younger and significantly cheaper. Nothing about this idea makes sense from their point of view.