Da Bears' Cap'n Justin Fields

Vendors Russell Adams, John Hagan and Donald Morris chat about the world of sports with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.

Patrick: Justin Fields, fellas—is he our leader for the future?

John: Justin’s development as a NFL quarterback depends on how much he improves on his throwing motion. To me, he’s very similar to Philadelphia Eagles’ QB Jalen Hurts. Both from dominant collegiate programs: Fields out of Ohio State, and Hurts out of Oklahoma and Alabama. Also, both have great legs—can get out and move like a running back—but questionable arms in regard to strength, accuracy and efficiency.

Russ: An offensive line. That’s all I got. We need an offensive line that cares beyond themselves to shield the young brotha looking to get them to the Super Bowl.

Donald: That’s right. Feel what’s really going on.

Patrick: I like it, too. But, please, pontificate further for the people who have given their $3 for our wonderful magazine.

Russ: Only because of your eloquence will I continue. So… the young Justin Fields needs an upgraded offensive line. He needs protection in the short term, so that as he matures, he is able to learn the skills needed to become as efficient and successful as, say, Tom Brady.

John: Russ, what's that you always say about the time Tom Brady has in the pocket?

Russ: That he has time to call Mom, eat a sandwich, down a few beverages and, then, toss a completion or a touchdown. That’s the only way a QB’s gonna get enough time to look off an option or two, and able to go for the best pass instead of, simply, a pass.

Donald: I love that line, man. As for my thoughts on Mr. Fields, the young man just needs to work hard. He obviously has some natural talent— duh—but in order to reach that next level, which I believe he will do, he’s going to have to learn from his mistakes—from the ones he made last year and the many he will make this year.

Patrick: Fellas, my thing is that he’s so friggin’ young. So, while I, as I do dang near every season, await the Bears championship win this year, I’ll be watching Justin Fields and his progress. I agree with Russ about Justin needing a very good offensive line. Mind you, I love his running ability, absolutely love it. And, at times, I think the Bears should allow his college-quarterbacking to come on out. Let him be what he became good at, option, run, option, pass, etc. and so forth. But, then, I realize— especially at the tender age of 23—that he’s going to have to adapt a lil’bit to the big boys' game. Get stronger like John mentioned earlier. But regardless of what he does in regard to his own health and strength, he’s going to need a line. Gonna need time.

John: I agree. Until Fields gets that arm stronger, the success and the respect won’t come. If it does, it’ll come in the way that Jim McMahon was able to command it: personality and coolness.

Russ: I feel both of those statements: That the arm is weaker than it needs to be, and the offensive line definitely needs to be upgraded. If he upgrades the arm, we could easily be looking at Mahomes-type of noise. Now, I won’t make any predictions at the moment, because it’s too early, but there’re always a surprise team or two around the league, so, who knows?

Donald: I won’t predict anything either; I will say, however, I feel positive about our quarterback of the future.

John: I’m with you, Donald. I envision success with Justin.

Any comments or suggestions? Email pedwards@streetwise.org