The arrival of rookie quarterback Justin Fields has re-energized the Chicago Bears fan base in a way that hasn’t been seen in a long time. After decades of failure at the quarterback position, Fields has the potential to break the long-standing quarterback curse in Chicago and finally give Bears fans a franchise quarterback.
The expectations are high, but fair, for the 11th overall pick, who is expected to see the field in his rookie season much sooner than the Bears might want. Even if veteran Andy Dalton is currently the team’s starter. One thing is clear, even at this point in the offseason — Fields is a star on the rise.
Fields has been named to the NFLPA’s Rising Stars list for the 2021 season, which projects top-selling rookies and veterans in regards to sales popularity, on-field performance, social media engagement and marketing potential.
Here’s a look at the complete rookie list, where Fields clocked in at No. 2 only behind top draft pick Trevor Lawrence.
- Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Justin Fields, QB, Chicago Bears
- Zach Wilson, QB, New York Jets
- Trey Lance, QB San Francisco 49ers
- Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Facons
- Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
- Devonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
- Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Travis Etienne, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Mac Jones, QB, New England Patriots
Fields impressed coaches, players and media members in attendance during Bears rookie minicamp, where he looked calm, consistent and accurate during his first three practices.
While Fields might not see the field right away as a starter, as Matt Nagy plans to develop him behind Dalton, the expectation is for him to see the field sooner rather than later. But if Fields impresses at training camp and proves he’s ready, Nagy will have to decide whether he’s prepared to put his prized rookie on the field from the start.
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