The Chicago Bears aren’t winning very much as they are currently riding a four-game losing streak. However, there have been some positive developments to pull out of all of the losses, such as the development of Justin Fields.
Fields still has a long way to go as a passer, but he is showing signs that will at least provide some optimism for the franchise going forward. He has completed at least 60 percent of his passes in five consecutive games and six out of the last seven games, which is very encouraging.
After throwing four interceptions in the first three games of the season, Fields has thrown only four in the subsequent eight games. They have come at inopportune times, such as the Bears attempting comebacks, but cutting back on turnovers is always a good sign.
Where Fields is truly dazzling is with his legs. What he has accomplished rushing the ball is truly astounding. He has rushed for at least 82 yards in three straight games and five out of the last six. Within that stretch is a record-setting performance against the Miami Dolphins in Week 9 when Fields rushed for 178 yards.
Fields has 834 rushing yards on the season with seven touchdowns. That puts him fifth in the league in rushing yards and tied for fifth in rushing scores. Chicago is the most dominant rushing team in the NFL this season and Fields is a huge part of that.
With one record-setting performance already under his belt, Fields could be looking at another one should he remain healthy. According to PFF, Fields is on pace for 1,288 rushing yards, which would break the NFL rushing record for a quarterback.
That record is currently held by Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens. He rushed for 1,206 yards in 2019 during his MVP season. Fields won’t be in the running for an MVP award this season, but his performance is something that deserves recognition.
Finding this level of success despite the limitations that he has as a passer is very impressive. The Bears will certainly spend this offseason building the roster up around Fields, finding him some weapons to throw the ball to and improving the offensive line in front of him.
The strides that Justin Fields has made despite the underwhelming circumstances should have the Bears and their fans excited about what the future holds.
