Despite a retooled roster without any big names at wide receiver or along the offensive line, there was optimism about Bears quarterback Justin Fields heading into Year 2.
A big reason for that was his blossoming connection with receiver Darnell Mooney. The two were virtually inseparable this offseason, whether it was on the field or in the classroom. Their connection was evident in training camp, and it was something Bears fans were looking forward to see unfold.
But through three games, that connection hasn’t been on display. In fact, it’s easy to forget that it ever existed at all. Mooney has just four catches for 27 yards this season, and the two haven’t been able to connect downfield like they showed they were capable of.
Fields insists that the connection is still there, but they’re going to let it unfold organically.
“We still have the connection,” Fields said, via NBC Sports Chicago. “We’re not gonna force it. I feel like, y’all talking about it—You know, I was staring him down a few too many times in the game. He probably told me that too: ‘Bro, don’t try to force anything; just let it all come.’ That’s what we’re gonna do. When the time comes, that time will come.”
Both Fields and Mooney have been quick to criticize their performances. Fields said he played like “trash” last week while Mooney was frustrated about his inability to serve as a playmaker for this offense.
The Bears passing offense has been, far and away, the worst in the NFL. They’re averaging just 78.3 passing yards per game, which isn’t just bad, it’s downright abysmal.
If Chicago hopes to get their passing game on track, the Fields-Mooney connection would be a great way to get there.
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