It seemed inevitable that the Chicago Bears would trade or release quarterback Justin Fields at some point. After agreeing to a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier today, the team has explained what went into the decision.
In a statement released a short while ago, Bears general manager explained that the Bears had been involved in “multiple trade conversations” involving Fields in recent weeks in order to best “what is best for both Justin and the Bears.” He said that the team spoke to Fields to inform of him of the trade and to thank him for his service to the team while wishing him well in his career.
“We have engaged in multiple trade conversations in recent weeks and believe trading Justin at this time to Pittsburgh is what is best for both Justin and the Bears. Today we spoke to Justin to inform him of the trade and the rationale behind it for us as a Club. We want to thank him for his tireless dedication, leadership and all he poured into our franchise and community the last three years and wish him the best towards a long and successful NFL career,” Poles said, via Ari Meirov.
The Bears traded up in the 2021 NFL Draft to take Fields No. 11 overall following a standout career with the Ohio State Buckeyes, including leading the team to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game mere months before.
Fields showed some flashes of brilliance early in his career but simply did not develop at the rate the team needed him to and their win-loss record has reflected that.
The Bears now hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and are expected to use it on another highly-touted quarterback: USC’s Caleb Williams.
Fields will now have a chance to rebuild his career with the Steelers, starting off by backing up Russell Wilson.