Case File No.13: Justin Fields

 

Justin Fields. Photo Credit: Michael Reaves/Getty Images.

Let's look into the case file of Justin Fields. He showed some improvement last season, and if he improves in specific areas that I will point out in the report, I think the Bears may have finally found their quarterback to lead their franchise for years to come. Before I continue, visit rdxsports.com and become a part of Team RDX. Get the latest on martial arts and fitness gear at a 10% discount.

Team: Chicago Bears

Position: Quarterback

HT: 6-3 WT: 228

Credentials:

2x First-team All-Big Ten (2019, 2020)

NFL record for most rushing yards a QB in a regular season game (178)

Strengths:

-Rocket arm

-Dangerous as a runner

-Competitor, doesn't break in adversity

-Overall play improved from his rookie season to last season

Weaknesses:

-Pocket game needs improvement

-Relies too much on his feet

Final Analysis:

Justin showed some improvement from his rookie season to last season. Although his passing numbers wasn't off the charts, he did set career highs in passing yards (2,242), touchdowns (17), and QB rating (85.2).  I think he will surpass those numbers this year.

Where he was most dangerous was when he made plays with his feet. He currently holds the NFL record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game, and he's only the third quarterback in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season (1,143).

Although he has made strides within his first two years in the league, I still think his play pocket needs improvement, particularly his timing and accuracy. He looked a bit erratic at times last year.

While rushing statistics were great individually, he relies on his legs too much. To be fair, his protection was lackluster to say the least--he was sacked 55 times last season, the most in the league--but it's not always good to see your quarterback constantly running. that's what coaches have running backs for, or constantly running for his life, so to speak.

Now, I'm not saying he shouldn't use feet at all, just don't overrely on them. I think the best way use someone of Fields' talent is in a more balanced way similar to how the Eagles use Jalen Hurts.

He's not the type of quarterback who's going to sit in the pocket most of the game and pick a defense apart, this is why I think the best way to maximize his skill set is with a more balanced approach--develop at least a respectable pocket game, while still being a threat as a runner.

Of course, there's a possibility that he could develop into a primary pocket passer, but personally, I don't think that's his game. 

He also didn't have a lot of weapons around him the last two seasons, but that has changed this year. If he develops as a pocket passer,  I think the bears will officially have their franchise quarterback they saw when they drafted him.