The Chicago Bears are taking decisive steps to streamline their quarterback lineup. They’ve decided to move Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
In return, the Steelers will give the Bears a sixth-round pick. This could upgrade to a fourth-round pick if Fields plays in over 51 percent of the snaps in the 2024 season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Justin Fields is now set to join Pittsburgh. This move comes shortly after the Steelers secured Russell Wilson in free agency with a one-year contract and traded Kenny Pickett to the Eagles.
Following the trade, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero revealed that Russell Wilson is confirmed as the starting quarterback. ESPN has indicated that there won’t be a contest for the position, making Wilson the primary quarterback for the upcoming season.
Fields has expressed his readiness for a new beginning, as per Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. The Bears, holding the first overall pick in this year’s draft, are rumored to be eyeing USC quarterback Caleb Williams.
Fields’ journey with the Bears, which began with great expectations, has seen its ups and downs. Drafted 11th overall in the 2021 NFL by the Bears, Fields showed promise but faced challenges, particularly with the team’s offensive line.
In the 2022 season, Fields scored 17 touchdowns and added eight more through rushing, despite being sacked a record 55 times. Over 13 games last season, he achieved 2,562 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, alongside 657 rushing yards and four additional touchdowns.
Despite a strong finish, the Bears ended the season with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs. Fields shared his gratitude towards the Bears and the city of Chicago in a post on X following the trade news.
With the trade, the Bears are positioned to draft Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, as the first overall pick, a decision that was hinted at by Bears general manager Ryan Poles during the scouting combine.
The addition of Williams to the Bears would see him joining forces with star receivers D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen, enhancing the team’s offensive lineup.
Despite rumors of Williams’ reluctance to join the Bears, he clarified in an ESPN interview that he would be excited to play for them, praising the team’s talent on both offense and defense.