Dec 10, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) reacts after a tackle against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
According to Sports Illustrated, though the Chicago Bears haven’t actively initiated discussions for trading quarterback Justin Fields, interest from other NFL teams has arisen, particularly during the Senior Bowl this year.
Traditionally, events like the scouting combine before the draft often ignite talks about trades. Albert Breer suggests that conversations with other NFL teams during such events have allowed Chicago’s staff to start evaluating Fields’ potential trade value for the upcoming offseason. Despite picking Fields at No. 11 overall three years ago, Breer mentions that the Bears still highly regard him as a quarterback prospect. However, they are currently finalizing plans regarding their quarterback position in the coming weeks.
There’s speculation that the team might choose to start anew at the position by selecting a top quarterback prospect like Caleb Williams from USC with this year’s No. 1 overall pick. This move would essentially reset the quarterback situation along with its associated contract dynamics. If the Bears decide to replace Fields at the top of the draft, it’s likely they would aim to trade their current starter sooner rather than later, capitalizing on the pre-draft quarterback market.
While formal trades can’t be completed until March 13, the official start of the 2024 league year, potential agreement terms can be negotiated and tentatively accepted beforehand. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and turnovers during his three seasons in Chicago, Fields has received positive feedback from his Bears teammates. However, the emergence of highly touted quarterback prospects like Caleb Williams, Drake Maye from North Carolina, and Jayden Daniels from LSU indicates that quarterback talent will be in high demand early in the draft.
