The Chicago Bears are heading into the 2023-24 season with a new focus: developing their NFL Draft prospect, Caleb Williams. This decision led them to part ways with Justin Fields in the offseason, a move that wasn’t always part of their plan. Bears general manager Ryan Poles revealed on The Rich Eisen Show that their initial intention was to build around Fields, providing him with more weapons to showcase his talent. They had the opportunity to acquire DJ Moore and had high hopes for players like Cole Kmet. They also bolstered the offensive line to further evaluate Fields’ potential. However, things took a different turn, and the Bears decided to trade Fields.
During the offseason, Poles made significant moves to strengthen the team’s offensive line, acquiring Coleman Shelton, Ryan Bates, Matt Pryor, and Jake Curhan. They also added new weapons for Fields, including Keenan Allen and D’Andre Swift. With these additions, Fields would have had a strong supporting cast to work with. However, these weapons will now be utilized by Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent, as Fields has been traded to the Steelers.
Fields will now have the opportunity to learn from veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. If he sees playing time, he will have talented receivers like George Pickens to throw to and a strong running game led by Najee Harris to support him. Despite not achieving the desired level of success, Fields showed promise during his time with the Bears, which made the front office and coaching staff hesitant to trade him.
In summary, the Bears originally planned to build around Justin Fields but ultimately decided to trade him to the Steelers. They made significant moves to strengthen the team, but these acquisitions will now benefit Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent. Fields will now have the opportunity to continue his development with the Steelers, learning from Russell Wilson and working with talented offensive weapons.
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