Bear Necessities: Does Justin Fields’ chance to break rushing record impact Week 18 status?

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Following Sunday’s loss, Bears coach Matt Eberflus said quarterback Justin Fields would start in the season finale against the Vikings, as long as he was healthy.

Granted, Fields probably hasn’t been 100 percent for awhile. He’s been sacked 55 times and has taken a number of big hits, including a left shoulder injury that sidelined him for a game.

There are many that believe Chicago should sit Fields for the finale to avoid an injury in a meaningless game ahead of an important offseason. While Eberflus insisted Fields will play Sunday, he sounded less certain when asked again on Monday.

He did note that conversations will take place this week with general manager Ryan Poles about all players — Fields included — about who will play against Minnesota.

But does the fact that Fields is 64 yards away from breaking Lamar Jackson’s single-season rushing record impact things?

“Yeah, that’s important,” Eberflus said Monday. “It’s an important factor, but it’s not end-all, be-all. Certainly the health of our team is the most important thing.”

While this season has been filled with plenty of lows, Fields’ success has been one of the more notable bright spots. He currently sits at 1,143 rushing yards, and he has a good chance to break Jackson’s record of 1,206 rushing yards. And if Fields is able to do that, it would be a positive to take into the offseason.

“That would be amazing to be part of something like that, as well,” said receiver Velus Jones Jr. “I’d be so happy for him.”

Rookie safety Jaquan Brisker would also love Fields to reach that milestone.

“Just a confidence booster for him also, and for his team,” Brisker said. “If Justin breaks his record, great. Happy to see people have success, especially your teammates.”

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