Justin Fields: Time to silence the doubters in 2023

Justin Fields had a promising second season in the NFL in 2022, after a relatively disappointing rookie season.

Drafted in the first round 2021 by the Chicago Bears, there has always been been a lot of hype around Fields since college to now looking to take a major step forward heading into his third year in the NFL, and this is when we usually see quarterbacks taking a giant leap in their development.

In today’s league, we are seeing mobile quarterbacks getting more playing time. That flexibility gives a team more options when drawing up plays and allows players to pick up extra yardage without risking the pass every down.

Fields’ scrambling ability is outstanding, with many of his big performances coming down to his ability to run with the ball. Due to his skill with his legs, he is good at making passes on the run, so he can give his receivers time to work down the field when they can’t get open straightaway.

What separates a quarterback from being average to the elite is their ability to throw in tight windows. A quarterback must be able to do this because it allows them to give the ball to the receiver, who can gain the most yardage. Fields has shown glimpses of his immense talent over his first two seasons in the NFL, and there is an excellent argument to make that he can become one of the best players in league with some help around him.

However, like everyone else, Fields has some holes in his game that he needs to work on. For example, he always looks for the big shot downfield instead of taking the check-down throw. A quarterback must know how to do this because it helps an offence move the chains.

Like many young quarterbacks, Fields needs help to work through his progressions quickly, and it stops him from making the correct read consistently. His size can sometimes pose a problem for the 24-year-old, as it could limit his vision in the middle of the field because he can’t see over the offensive lineman. The Bears also need to provide him with any receiver help, and while DJ Moore is a great addition to the squad this offseason, it will be tough for the young quarterback to succeed without more support.

Ultimately, Fields is on course to be a massive star in the league if the Bears back their guy and get the support he needs. With a Jalen Hurts-type breakout, there is no reason why Fields shouldn’t be a top-five player in the NFL.