What Happened to Justin Fields? Bears Trade QB to Steelers Amid Potential Caleb Williams Move

Explore the implications of the Chicago Bears trading QB Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers and their potential move for USC's Caleb Williams.

Updated on Mar 17, 2024  |  09:18 AM IST |  79.9K
Image Credits: Getty
Image credits: Getty

In a stunning move that reshapes two storied NFL franchises, the Chicago Bears have traded quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, opening a new chapter for both the player and the teams involved.

What happened to Justin Fields?

This move not only alters Fields' career trajectory but also signals a clear intention by the Bears to pursue a fresh start at the quarterback position, potentially with USC's standout Caleb Williams. 

"I can't say thank you enough to the city of Chicago for taking me in and embracing me," Fields shared on social media, expressing gratitude towards the Bears' organization and fans while looking ahead to his next chapter in Pittsburgh.

The Bears' decision to trade Fields, once heralded as a franchise savior, is a significant marker of their new direction under the current management. Fields, who was drafted 11th overall by the Bears in 2021, faced challenges in Chicago, struggling to develop as a passer under the guidance of former coach Matt Nagy and current coach Matt Eberflus.


Despite his struggles, Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his potential with both his arm and his legs. Over 40 games, Fields managed to throw for 200 yards or more just 13 times and has only one 300-yard passing game to his credit. However, Fields did improve in the pocket this season, throwing for a career-high 2,562 yards and maintaining an 86.3 passer rating, placing him 22nd in the NFL.

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His move to Pittsburgh offers him a chance to reset his career, working under a new system that may better leverage his mobility and raw talent.The Chicago Bears will receive a conditional 2025 pick from the Steelers, emphasizing the strategic depth of this decision.

The decision to trade Fields, coupled with the acquisition of star receiver Keenan Allen, suggests the Bears are in full rebuild mode, aiming to maximize their assets and position themselves for future success. In Pittsburgh, Fields joins a quarterback room that has undergone significant transformations. With the addition of Russell Wilson and the departure of Kenny Pickett to the Eagles, the Steelers are clearly aiming to revitalize their offense. 

By moving Fields, they have all but laid out the red carpet for Caleb Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner whose college career at USC has been nothing short of spectacular, celebrated for his remarkable performance over the past two seasons with 72 touchdown passes and only 10 interceptions, presents an enticing option for the Bears. 

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Now, with the Steelers, Fields is poised to assume a backup role to nine-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson, who recently inked a deal with Pittsburgh. This pairing is anticipated to invigorate the Steelers' quarterback room, as Wilson himself expressed excitement about working with Fields. "Let’s get it @justnfields! QB room bout to be (fire emoji)," Wilson tweeted.

What are you thoughts on Justin Fields' trade - is it a wise decision or blunder by Bears?

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