The Chicago Bears traded up in the 2021 NFL Draft to acquire quarterback Justin Fields.
They received the 11th overall selection in exchange for their first and fifth-rounders in 2021 plus their first and fourth-rounders in 2022.
It’s a huge haul to surrender for average returns.
In his rookie season, the former Ohio State player finished with 1,870 yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions.
He also added 420 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
However, he contended with Andy Dalton for the starting role and ended up starting only ten games.
Fields saved the best for last in Week 18 against the Minnesota Vikings, finishing with 26 completions for 285 yards and a touchdown.
That performance could help him gain momentum for his sophomore year wherein he will be the Bears’ projected Week 1 starter.
Unfortunately, Pro Football Focus doesn’t see a good season for him because of his situation.
Which 2nd-year QBs are best set up for success next season?
? @PFF_AustinGayle pic.twitter.com/9XYZ7Rs3X5
— PFF (@PFF) May 6, 2022
PFF ranked him sixth among second-year quarterbacks.
The San Francisco 49ers’ Trey Lance takes the top spot, followed by the New York Jets’ Zach Wilson and New England Patriots’ Mac Jones.
Houston Texans play-caller Davis Mills and Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence round up the top five.
Why Fields Is Ranked Sixth In PFF’s List
The Bears’ haul in the 2022 NFL Draft can affect Fields’ numbers.
Chicago opted to address their pass defense even if they ranked third in passing yards allowed per game last season at 191.6.
Still, they are preparing for the future by getting cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker in the second round.
They could have selected a wide receiver, especially with Allen Robinson leaving for the Los Angeles Rams.
The Bears did sign Byron Pringle and Equanimeous St. Brown but much is left to be desired after these additions.
The team did draft Velus Jones Jr. in the third round which might be a case of too little, too late.
Only time can tell if these choices will pan out.
But the Bears did not do enough in building their offense to help Fields thrive.
NEXT: Bears Must Remain Patient With Justin Fields In 2022
