Another week, more confusion.
Despite the Bears' 27-16 win over the Arizona Cardinals last weekend, questions remain about quarterback Justin Fields. Does he have a long-term future with the Bears after this season?
It was the same old story for Fields this weekend. His performance through the air was mediocre, throwing for 170 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He finished with a QBR rating of 65.4 and a passer rating of 71.5. However, he recorded nine carries for 97 yards and another touchdown on the ground.
Should the Bears look for a new quarterback this offseason? A former Bears head coach is fond of Fields and added a caveat to the Bears' biggest offseason question.
“I like Justin Fields,” Dave Wannstedt said on NBC 5. “I know everyone wants to see more. It really depends and I've been going through this for 40 years. Everyone wants to replace everyone they have. My goodness.’ The question is: Who are you going to draft that you’re sure is going to be better than what you have?”
Theoretically, that would be USC quarterback Caleb Williams or Drake Maye from North Carolina. There's also Michael Penix Jr. from Washington and even Bo Nix from Oregon. But Williams and Maye dominate the conversation about the most interesting graduates.
But are they better or will they be better quarterbacks than Fields?
Therein lies the question. Fields has shown Bears fans what he can do in 36 starts. Overall, his athleticism, pocket awareness and playmaking ability are evident. He has a strong arm that can throw the ball deep even while running.
But can he become a more efficient quarterback? He owns the 22nd overall QBR and 23rd overall passer rating this season. The bears want this to expand to above-average levels. But at this point, he has three seasons to prove his progress in this area. Does he deserve more time?
The Bears will have to decide this offseason whether to continue trying to develop Fields or relinquish his services. The Bears currently hold the No. 1 overall pick due to the Carolina Panthers' worst record. They also picked number 8 themselves.
Should they use this election to bring in a new signal-caller? In any case, Wannstedt is convinced of Ryan Poles' abilities as general manager.
“I think we just have to trust Ryan Poles now,” Wannstedt said. “He did a very good job with these designs. I think he did a very good job with the trades he brought in. I think we have to trust him to give it a little more time and let him take a look at these young draft picks and see if they are better. And if they are better, we have to change something.”
Remember, the Bears passed on the top quarterbacks from last year's draft to Fields. The decision has not yet been made for everyone, including Fields. But CJ Stroud appears to be a true franchise cornerstone with the Texans. And the Bears missed the opportunity to recruit him.
Can they afford to give up the draft's top prospects again to gamble on Fields' development?
It's up to Poles and Kevin Warren to answer that question.
Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.