Eric Boggs
In a surprising move, the Chicago Bears have traded away former Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers after just three seasons with the team. This significant trade signifies a major shift in strategy for the Bears, as they are now expected to target USC’s Caleb Williams with the first pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
According to renowned NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Steelers acquired Fields in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round draft pick, with the potential for that pick to escalate to a fourth-round selection next season based on Fields’ playing time. This trade indicates the Steelers’ interest in Fields as an insurance policy, particularly in the competitive AFC North division.
Fields, who was selected 11th overall by the Bears in the 2021 NFL Draft, has had a frustrating professional career after leading Ohio State to two Big Ten titles and two appearances in the College Football Playoffs during his tenure with the Buckeyes. However, his time in Chicago did not fully live up to expectations, prompting the Bears to explore other options.
Last season, Fields completed 61 percent of his passes for 2,562 yards, 16 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Additionally, he proved to be a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for 657 yards and four touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility on the field. In 2002, Fields set the all-time single-game rushing record in the NFL, rushing for 178-yards against the Miami Dolphins.
The Steelers’ acquisition of Fields comes shortly after their trade for veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, indicating their commitment to bolstering their quarterback depth in the face of stiff competition within their division. Given Wilson’s poor play recently, it appears the Steelers are looking at Fields as an insurance policy if Wilson isn;t the answer.
