Justin Fields is at least one week away from regaining his starting job at quarterback and is targeting a Nov. 5 return against the New Orleans Saints.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus said there is no change in Fields’ status for this week. He’s officially doubtful with a thumb injury, meaning rookie Tyson Bagent gets the green light to make another start for Chicago in the primetime game Sunday at the Los Angeles Chargers.
“Tyson will be our starter,” Eberflus said, noting Fields is progressing and working to get back on the field.
Bagent started last week in Fields’ place and Chicago beat the Las Vegas Raiders, 30-12, to improve to 2-5. He has completed 72.1 percent of his passes in the past two games, which includes most of the second half of a near-comeback against the Minnesota Vikings in which Fields was injured.
Left tackle Braxton Jones returned to practice Wednesday in what could be positive news for Bagent as he prepares to face a pass rush led by Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa.
Eberflus didn’t commit to a timeframe for Fields’ return, but said he would be the starter when he’s ready to play.
Fields still has swelling in his right hand, which limits his grip strength and might be more problematic in cold or wet weather with a slick football.
–Field Level Media