The Chicago Bears are entering a pivotal 2024 offseason, one that will define their franchise for the next decade. And, of course, the focal point is the most important position in all of sports: quarterback.
Justin Fields faces an uncertain future after three seasons with the Bears, made uncertain with Chicago holding the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. But unlike last year, when they also had the top selection, it’s not a foregone conclusion that the team is going to stick with Fields.
That’s because of Heisman-winning quarterback Caleb Williams, who’s widely considered the top prospect in this 2024 draft class. Many experts believe it’s a foregone conclusion that the Bears draft Williams with the first pick come April 25. But that’s not necessarily the case.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Bears front office hasn’t yet made a decision about Fields’ future. That decision will ultimately come following the evaluation of quarterback prospects in this year’s draft class.
From @NFLGameDay: #Bears QB Justin Fields would be a legend for knocking the #Packers out of the playoffs. He's played great. But that doesn't mean a decision about the future is made. pic.twitter.com/3igOdOPlhz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 7, 2024
Which makes sense. After all, general manager Ryan Poles made sure to do his due diligence during the draft process last year, before trading the No. 1 pick to the Carolina Panthers for a haul that turned into wide receiver DJ Moore, right tackle Darnell Wright, cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, this year’s No. 1 pick and a 2025 second-round selection.
Fields has shown improvement in his third season, which has reportedly made this decision more difficult for Poles and co. Along with Fields’ growth, Bears players and fans have been adamant and vocal about wanting him back in 2024.
There’s no denying that Chicago is building something special over these final stretch of games, and Fields has been a part of that. Not to mention, the Bears could get an even bigger haul for this No. 1 pick than last year’s (which could help further build this roster around Fields.
But it’ll be Poles who ultimately decides whether Fields can lead this team to a championship — or whether Williams or another draft prospect puts them in the best position to return to prominence.