The news regarding Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields and his thumb injury continues to be fluid, but the timeline for his return is starting to get clearer in some ways. Some reports have Fields potentially missing 2-3 games, but others indicate he could return as soon as Week 8.
On Sunday morning, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported Fields is working toward a return in Week 8 against the Los Angeles Chargers. The issue with his thumb continues to be grip strength, but the Bears quarterback is pushing to get back on the field as soon as possible, with that date in mind.
Few #Bears QB notes before kickoff:
*Justin Fields working toward return as soon as Week 8, per sources. Much depends on ability to grip football, which could take time, but Fields ‘determined’ to make quickest return possible.
*Tyson Bagent impressed Bears early with acumen,…— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 22, 2023
While that’s Fields’ goal, a realistic timeline could have him missing 2-3 games. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared that the quarterback is dealing with an injury that would have him out those next few games, and he’s “likely out against the Chargers next week.” Rapoport did say he’s not totally ruled out for next week as he’s beginning to regain his grip strength, but chances are he misses at least one more game.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay: #Bears QB Justin Fields is dealing with a 2-3 week injury; 65 friends and family members are in town for Tyson Bagent’s start today, including The Beast; #Giants QB Daniel Jones is out vs. the #Commanders today. pic.twitter.com/wghNNBhKPC
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 22, 2023
Fields injured his thumb last week against the Minnesota Vikings and is out against the Las Vegas Raiders. Undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent is set to start in his place and will likely do so again if Fields cannot play next week.