The Chicago Bears have spent much of their existence seeking for a true franchise quarterback.
On Wednesday, the team made significant alterations to their offense for the future, but the question of whether quarterback Justin Fields will return remained unanswered.
General manager Ryan Poles made it clear in his opening statement that the Bears would not rush to make a decision as they consider Fields’ future with holding the No. 1 choice in the 2024 NFL Draft.
“I know there’s going to be a lot of questions about Justin, about the draft process,” Poles added, according to a team transcript. “We are currently gathering information. We will turn every stone to ensure that we make the best decision for our organization.
“I thought Justin grew better. I believe he can lead this team. But, at the same time, there is a unique situation in which I and our staff must look at everything, and that is exactly what we will do, as is the case with free agency. We’re going to look at our free agents, given my personnel staff, conduct evaluations, and make the best decision possible for this club to move forward.”
Fields was taken 11th overall in the 2021 draft, which has swiftly being criticized for its first-round quarterback crop (Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, and Mac Jones). He was acquired by the Bears’ previous management, which included head coach Matt Nagy and general manager Ryan Pace.
He’s spent two seasons with the Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus. The trio’s fates appeared to be in danger following Week 18, but Eberflus and Poles have stayed put. Whether Fields is as well will be the dominant storyline of the Bears’ offseason.