Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields exited in the third quarter of Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings with a hand injury and did not return to action.
At least initially, it seemed as if the injury might be pretty serious. While that’s not the case, Fields’ status for Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders is up in the air.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus told reporters on Monday that Fields is doubtful for the game.
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“For this week it looks like it’s doubtful. But we’ll see at the end of the week and see where it goes. I know he’s a fast healer,” Eberflus said about Fields’ Week 7 status.
The good news here is that it’s unlikely Fields will have to undergo surgery. He reportedly suffered a dislocated thumb in his throwing hand. As for what to expect moving forward in the week, “it’s really going to come down to grip strength,” Eberflus said.
Fields completed 6-of-10 passes for 50 yards with zero touchdowns and an interception prior to going down with the injury. He had put up the best two-game span of his career heading into Sunday’s matchup with the division-rival Vikings (617 yards, 8 TD, 1 INT).
Justin Fields stats (2023): 62% completion, 1,201 yards, 11 TD, 6 INT
With Fields sidelined for the majority of the second half on Sunday, rookie undrafted free agent Tyson Bagent from small-school Shepherd took over under center. He proceeded to lose a fumble on a sack, which was returned for a touchdown. Bagent also threw an interception in the 19-13 home loss to Minnesota.
The Chicago Bears find themselves at 1-5 on the season and in last place in the NFC North during what has been another trying campaign for the downtrodden organization.
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Given the Bears’ status as a bottom feeder, it makes sense to play it safe with Fields. Then again, the organization wants to see what it has in the former first-round pick from Ohio State moving forward on the season.
As of right now, Chicago would have the first and second picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. That means the real possibility of landing USC star quarterback Caleb Williams. Fields needs to prove himself to the powers that ben in Chicago, whoever they might be, following the 2023 season.