Justin Fields was the fourth quarterback selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, but the first to make his preseason debut on Saturday afternoon.
The former Ohio State star – selected by the Bears at No. 11 overall after they traded up with the Giants – made a strong impression with one passing touchdown and one rushing score in Chicago’s 20-13 win over the Dolphins.
“It is preseason and we understand that there’s variables involved and all that, but at the same time if you said is he doing what you want him to do? Absolutely,” Bears coach Matt Nagy said.
The first three picks in the draft – Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars), Zach Wilson (Jets) and Trey Lance (49ers) – also were slated to see their first preseason action Saturday night.
Fields, who received a standing ovation at Soldier Field when he replaced starter Andy Dalton in the second quarter, completed 14 of 20 passes for 142 yards with no sacks or interceptions, including a 30-yard touchdown to Jesse James in the third quarter. He also finished with 33 yards on the ground on five rushing attempts, with an 8-yard run for a score earlier in the third.
“I definitely feel good outside of the pocket,” Fields said. “It puts a lot of pressure on the defense and allows me to play backyard football with the receivers.”
Bears quarterback Justin Field completed 14-of-20 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown against the Dolphins on Saturday. APThe rookie’s strong play even caught the attention of NBA superstar LeBron James on Twitter. James is big fan of Ohio State.
“Justin Fields is so SPECIAL man!! Keep going young (king),” James tweeted, using a crown emoji.
Former No. 2 overall pick Mitch Trubisky (2017) was not re-signed by the Bears in the offseason, landing with the Bills to be the backup quarterback to Josh Allen.
— with AP
