Column: Whether it’s Week 1 or later, Matt Nagy’s top preseason goal is clear — preparing Justin Fields to be the Chicago Bears starting quarterback

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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up with his teammates on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
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Bears coach Matt Nagy looks on as quarterback Justin Fields (1) looks to throw during the Bears Family Fest training camp practice at Soldier Field on Aug. 3, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws to wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown in what would become an interception by Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander in the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field on Sept. 18, 2022.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields (1) is tackled by Northwestern Wildcats linebacker Paddy Fisher (42) in the first quarter of the Big Ten championship game on Dec. 19, 2020, in Indianapolis.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields looks on during the second quarter of the CFP national championship game against Alabama on Jan .11, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields during OTAs at Halas Hall on June 9, 2021.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields looks for a receiver against Clemson during a College Football Playoff semifinal on Jan. 1, 2021, in New Orleans.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) warms up Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up to face the 49ers in the rain onSept. 11, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) runs the ball on the Bears' final drive during the fourth quarter against the Washington Commanders, Oct. 13, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles with the ball against the 49ers and scores on this play in the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on Oct. 31, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws to running back Khalil Herbert in the first quarter against the 49ers at Soldier Field on Oct. 31, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields breaks free for a long touchdown run in the first quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Dec. 4, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates his first career touchdown pass to tight end Jesper Horsted in the second quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields and teammates celebrate the Week 1 win by sliding into the end zone puddles in the rain at Soldier Field on Sept. 11, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates after rushing for a touchdown in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears tight end Jesse James, left, celebrates after making a touchdown reception in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) runs the ball in the second quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney warms up for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) scrambles out of the pocket in the third quarter against the New England Patriots, Oct. 24, 2022, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass in the second quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Dec. 4, 2022.
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Bears defensive tackle Daniel Archibong (72) flexes after sacking Dolphins quarterback Reid Sinnett in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields watches the Week 12 game against the Jets on Nov. 27, 2022, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Bears 31-10.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields answers questions, Jan. 31, 2022, at Halas Hall.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) walks to the sideline after failing to convert a fourth-down attempt on the last drive of the game against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields signs autographs for fans before facing the Steelers on Nov. 8, 2021, at Heinz Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball while getting pressure from the Browns defense during the third quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
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Quarterback Justin Fields departs after speaking July 26, 2022, as the Chicago Bears report to training camp at Halas Hall.
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Quarterbacks Justin Fields (1) and Andy Dalton (14) during take part in drills during Chicago Bears Family Fest at Soldier Field on Aug. 3, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws an incomplete pass during the third quarter of the Week 4 against the Giants on Oct. 12, 2022, at MetLife Stadium.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields signs items for fan on the field during warmups before the Week 12 game against the Lions at Ford Field on Nov. 25, 2021. Fields (ribs) did not play.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields looks for an open receiver during the first quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields stands on the sideline in the fourth quarter against the Lions at Soldier Field on Oct. 3, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass during training camp at Halas Hall in Lake Forest on July 29, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball against the Dolphins in the first quarter on Nov. 6, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears defensive back Tre Roberson (31) deflects a pass intended for Dolphins wide receiver Kai Locksley (87) in the fourth quarter of a preseason game on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields passes in the second quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes off on a run in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields passes under pressure from Chiefs safety Deon Bush in the first quarter of a preseason game on Aug. 13, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) throws an incomplete pass with pressure from Raiders defensive end Yannick Ngakoue (91) in the first quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields keeps the ball for a rushing touchdown in the second quarter against the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Nov. 20, 2022.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields signs a shoe for a fan before a game against the Washington Commanders at Soldier Field, Oct. 13, 2022.
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Bears defensive back Marqui Christian (43) and strong safety Jordan Lucas (23) talk in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball against Packers cornerback Rasul Douglas in the second quarter at Lambeau Field on Dec. 12, 2021.
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Bears defensive end Sam Kamara (78) chases Dolphins quarterback Reid Sinnett in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears rookie QB Justin Fields on the sidelines during of a preseason game against the Titans on Aug. 28, 2021, in Nashville, Tenn.
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Quarterback Justin Fields practices with quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko (left) and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy on Aug. 2, 2022, during Bears training camp at Halas Hall.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields passes against Clemson during the second half of the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, 2021, in New Orleans.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields walks back to the sideline after throwing an interception in fourth quarter against the Bengals at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Bears linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu (50) chases Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields is tackled by Ravens outside linebacker Tyus Bowser in the third quarter at Soldier Field on Nov. 21, 2021. Fields left the game after this possession with an injury.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields heads to the locker room after an injury in the third quarter against the Ravens at Soldier Field on Nov. 21, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes the field to face the Packers at Lambeau Field on Dec. 12, 2021.
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Quarterback Justin Fields practices on Aug. 1, 2022, during Bears training camp at Halas Hall.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs drills during OTAs at Halas Hall on June 9, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) runs with the ball as Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) prepares to make the tackle in the first quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears quarterbacks Andy Dalton and Justin Fields during warmups before the Week 12 game against the Lions at Ford Field on Nov. 25, 2021. Fields (ribs) did not play.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields lies on the ground after being sacked in the fourth quarter of a game against the Packers at Lambeau Field on Dec. 12, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the Packers at Lambeau Field on Sept. 18, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) leads the team out Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) warms up on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
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Chicago Bears rookie Justin Fields warms up on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
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Bears rookie quarterback Justin Fields celebrates after a 20-13 preseason win over the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields is sacked by Titans linebacker Derick Roberson in the first half of a preseason game on Aug. 28, 2021, in Nashville, Tenn.
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quarterback Justin Fields cheers in the end zone after a touchdown against the Lions at Soldier Field on Nov. 13, 2022.
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Quarterback Justin Fields practices Aug. 1, 2022, during Chicago Bears training camp at Halas Hall.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws in the third quarter against the Dolphins in the preseason opener at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Dolphins tight end Carson Meier (85) loses the ball as he is hit by Bears defensive back Marqui Christian (43) and outside linebacker Austin Calitro (60) in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Browns defensive end Myles Garrett sacks Bears quarterback Justin Fields during the third quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields looks for a receiver against Clemson in a CFP semifinal on Jan. 1, 2021, in New Orleans.
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Dallas Cowboys defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) chases Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) while he runs the ball during the first quarter, Oct. 30, 2022, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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Bears quarterbacks Andy Dalton (14) and Justin Fields fist-bump on the sideline in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields rushes for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Dolphins in the preseason opener at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields makes a shovel pass to running back David Montgomery as he is tackled by Falcons defensive end Arnold Ebiketie in the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Nov. 20, 2022.
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Steelers free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick knocks Bears quarterback Justin Fields out of bounds in the second quarter at Heinz Field on Nov. 8, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scores in the fourth quarter against the 49ers at Soldier Field on Oct. 31, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles in the fourth quarter against the Steelers at Heinz Field during the Week 9 game on Nov. 8, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields rushes away from Falcons players in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Nov. 20, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates his run for a 61-yard touchdown in the third quarter on Nov. 6, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields fumbles and loses the ball against Packers outside linebacker Preston Smith (91) in the third quarter at Lambeau Field on Dec. 12, 2021.
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Bears running back Khalil Herbert rushes in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields looks to pass in the second quarter against the Bengals at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass in the fourth quarter of a game against the Packers at Lambeau Field on Dec. 12, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws during the 4th quarter against the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 24, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields tries to recover the ball after being sacked in the fourth quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs in a 67-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Lions at Soldier Field on Nov. 13, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields signs autographs for fans before playing the Texans at Soldier Field on Sept. 25, 2022.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes part in the "Shoot the Puck" contest during intermission of a game between the Blackhawks and Seattle Kraken at the United Center, April 7, 2022.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields runs through the Northwestern defense in the first quarter of the Big Ten championship game on Dec. 19, 2020, in Indianapolis.
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Quarterback Justin Fields laughs during a news conference, June 14, 2022, during Chicago Bears minicamp at Halas Hall.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields walks off the field after the Bears lost to the Packers 24-14 at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws on the run in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) kneels on the ground after wide receiver Darnell Mooney was short of the goal line against the Washington Commanders during the fourth quarter, Oct. 13, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields fumbles a ball after being blindsided by Buccaneers outside linebacker Jason Pierre-Paulin the 2nd quarter at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 24, 2021.
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Bears fans celebrate after quarterback Justin Fields rushes for a touchdown in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields stands on the sidelines during the fourth quarter of the game against the Cardinals on Dec. 5, 2021.
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Chicago Bears defensive back Xavier Crawford (47), left, and cornerback Michael Joseph (30) tackle Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws out a ceremonial first pitch before before the White Sox-Yankees game at Guaranteed Rate Field on Aug. 15, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) walks to the sideline after throwing an interception in the first quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields makes a completion on the last drive of the game in the fourth quarter against the Steelers at Heinz Field during the Week 9 game on Nov. 8, 2021.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields reacts after defeating Clemson 49-28 in a CFP semifinal at on Jan. 1, 2021, in New Orleans.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) heads to the locker room after warming up for a game against the New England Patriots, Oct. 24, 2022, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) winds up for a pass against the Miami Dolphins in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs for a 61-yard touchdown in the third quarter against the Dolphins on Nov. 6, 2022 at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs in the end zone for a touchdown against the Lions at Soldier Field on Nov. 13, 2022.
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Bears linebacker Trevis Gipson (99) chases Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields argues with a referee in the fourth quarter of a game against the Vikings at Soldier Field on Dec. 20, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields tries to recover the ball after he fumbled it in the third quarter against the Bengals at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates a touchdown pass with running back David Montgomery in the fourth quarter on Sept. 11, 2022, at Soldier Field.
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Bears QBs Justin Fields (1) and Andy Dalton (14) run drills during OTAs at Halas Hall on June 2, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields looks for an open receiver during the first quarter against the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields looks down while walking on the field during the fourth quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears linebackers Khalil Mack (52) and Roquan Smith walk off the field after a 20-13 win over the Dolphins in a preseason game on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields throws during pro day at Ohio State on March 30, 2021, in Columbus, Ohio.
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Two Chicago Bears fans attend a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields tries to run past Vikings defensive end D.J. Wonnum in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Dec. 20, 2021.
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Chicago Bears cornerback Kindle Vildor (22) defends against the Miami Dolphins in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up for a game against the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Sept. 12, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields makes a pass in the second quarter against the Lions at Soldier Field on Oct. 3, 2021.
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Bears rookie quarterback Justin Fields (1) heads to the locker room after a 20-13 preseason win against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears cornerback Teez Tabor (37) celebrates a 20-13 preseason win over the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears defensive end LaCale London, right, makes a tackle in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs on the field during the fourth quarter against the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs in a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the 49ers at Soldier Field on Oct. 31, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) celebrates after a 20-13 win over the Miami Dolphins in a preseason game at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields dives into the end zone for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Packers at Lambeau Field on Sept. 18, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields and teammates take the field to play the Packers at Lambeau Field on Sept. 18, 2022.
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Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos (2) warms up for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields looks on from the bench in the third quarter against Northwestern on Oct. 18, 2019, at Ryan Field in Evanston.
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Bears linebacker Caleb Johnson (92) forces the ball loose from Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates after a 20-13 preseason win over the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields passes against the Titans during a preseason game on Aug. 28, 2021, in Nashville, Tenn.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) looks to throw in the first quarter against the Raiders on Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs with the ball in the third quarter of the Week 2 game at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) celebrates with teammate Velus Jones Jr. (12) after Fields scored a rushing touchdown in the first quarter against the New England Patriots, Oct. 24, 2022, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes off on a touchdown run in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Packers linebacker Jonathan Garvin sacks Bears quarterback Justin Fields during the second quarter at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes the field during warmups before playing the Packers at Lambeau Field on Sept. 18, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Nick Foles (9) takes a delay-of-game penalty to end the preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field. The Bears won 20-13.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs off the field after a victory over the Bengals at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles out of the pocket before gaining a first down on a run in the first quarter against the Texans at Soldier Field on Sept. 25, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up for a game against the Texans at Soldier Field on Sept. 25, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields kneels while Packers linebacker Jonathan Garvin (53) and nose tackle Kenny Clark (97) celebrate Clark's sack at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears running back Tarik Cohen acknowledges fans while heading to the locker room after a 20-13 win over the Miami Dolphins in a preseason game on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field/
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Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks, left, laughs on the sideline in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws against the Bengals in the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on Sept. 19, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields eludes the 49ers defense before throwing a touchdown pass in the third quarter of a game at Soldier Field on Sept. 11, 2022.
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Quarterback Justin Fields speaks during a news conference at Chicago Bears training camp, Aug. 3, 2022, at Halas Hall
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields rolls out of the pocket in the third quarter against the Lions at Soldier Field on Oct. 3, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) in the second half during a game against the Buffalo Bills at Soldier Field on Aug. 21, 2021.
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Fans reach for Bears extra-point ball in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) watches the final field goal, securing a 20-9 win over the Raiders on Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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Bears linebacker Charles Snowden celebrates after a sack in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields watches the Bulls play the Toronto Raptors at the United Center, Jan. 26, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields keeps the ball for a rush in the second quarter against the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Nov. 20, 2022.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields and running back David Montgomery (32) take the field to face the Steelers on Nov. 8, 2021, at Heinz Field.
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Bears running back Artavis Pierce rushes in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates his touchdown run with teammates in the third quarter after a TD against the Rams at Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Sept. 12, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles against the Titans in the first half of a preseason game on Aug. 28, 2021, in Nashville, Tenn.
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Bears quarterbacks Andy Dalton (14) and Nick Foles head to the locker room after a 20-13 preseason win against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields and teammates celebrate the Week 1 win by sliding into the end zone puddles in the rain at Soldier Field on Sept. 11, 2022.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Andy Dalton (14) takes the field to warm up for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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A fan tries to catch a thrown T-shirt with his baseball cap in the fourth quarter of a preseason game between the Bears and Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields rushes for a touchdown in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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With the offense backed up to their own 1-yard-line, Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws an interception to the Buccaneers' Pierre Tesir in the 2nd half at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 24, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields hands off to running back Khalil Herbert on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
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The Bears' Dionte Ruffin picks up a fumble in the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Chicago Bears wide receiver Marquise Goodwin (84) stands on the field during warm ups for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields handles the ball during the fourth quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields is sacked by Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence during the second quarter of the Week 4 against on Oct. 12, 2022, at MetLife Stadium.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass in the first quarter against the Lions at Soldier Field on Oct. 3, 2021.
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Chicago Bears cornerback Duke Shelley (20) tackles Miami Dolphins running back Myles Gaskin (37) in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Injured Bears quarterback Justin Fields walks the field on Jan. 2, 2022, before the home finale against the Giants at Soldier Field.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball in the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields leaves the field after the game Jan. 2, 2022, at Soldier Field. The Bears defeated the Giants 29-3.
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Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney (11) warms up for a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterbacks Andy Dalton and Justin Fields talk on the sideline in the fourth quarter against the Dolphins in the preseason opener at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
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Quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass during the Chicago Bears rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 15, 2021.
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Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs away from diving 49ers defensive end Samson Ebukam in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Oct. 31, 2021.
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Quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball in for a first down on the Bears' first possession of the game against the Texans at Soldier Field on Sept. 25, 2022.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields points up after carrying the ball 11 yards during the first half against the Lions at Soldier Field on Oct. 3, 2021.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields arrives with other rookies to throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the White Sox-Yankees game at Guaranteed Rate Field on Aug. 15, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe celebrates a 20-13 preseason win over the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs with the ball during the first half of the Week 11 game against the Ravens at Soldier Field on Nov. 21, 2021.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields gets sacked by Packers nose tackle Kenny Clark to make it 4th-and-26 during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs the ball during the second quarter against the Packers at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields scrambles while looking for a receiver in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields and teammates take the field for a preseason game on Aug. 13, 2022, against the Chiefs at Soldier Field.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears defensive back Xavier Crawford, left, and cornerback Michael Joseph tackle Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed in the second quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs on the field on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields hits the end zone for his first NFL touchdown in the third quarter against the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Sept. 12, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) eludes the Packers defense before throwing an incomplete pass on fourth down on the last drive of the game at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up before the Week 4 against the Giants on Oct. 12, 2022, at MetLife Stadium.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields gives a "thumbs up" while warming up for a game against the Vikings at Soldier Field on Dec. 20, 2021.
Jay LaPrete / AP
Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass against Indiana during the first half of a game on Nov. 21, 2020, in Columbus, Ohio.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields passes around Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore in the first quarter of the Big Ten championship game on Dec. 19, 2020, in Indianapolis.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) heads to the medical tent in the second quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears fans attend a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver Darnell Mooney celebrate after connecting on a touchdown pass and catch in the fourth quarter against the Steelers at Heinz Field during the Week 9 game on Nov. 8, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears fan Roberto Sermeno attends a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields on the sidelines during the third quarter of the Week 4 against the Giants on Oct. 12, 2022, at MetLife Stadium.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws in the third quarter of a preseason game against the Dolphins on Aug. 14, 2021, at Soldier Field.
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) lines up for stretching during OTAs at Halas Hall on June 9, 2021.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 24, 2021.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields stretches on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields heads to the locker room after a loss to the Packers at Soldier Field on Dec. 4, 2022.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields is helped off the ground by center Sam Mustipher and an official after getting sacked by Browns defensive end Myles Garrett in the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields takes the field on Nov. 6, 2022, at Soldier Field. The Dolphins defeated the Bears 35-32.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Quarterback Justin Fields (1) practices Wednesday, July 27, 2022 as the Chicago Bears open training camp at Halas Hall. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet waits for an on-field interview in the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears tight end J.P. Holtz (81), running back David Montgomery (32) and quarterback Justin Fields (1) take the field for the Week 3 game against the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images North America/TNS
Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields runs with the ball against Clemson during the CFP semifinal on Jan. 1, 2021, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.
Mark Zaleski/AP
Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up before a preseason game on Aug. 28, 2021, in Nashville, Tenn.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields passes against the Dolphins in the first quarter on Nov. 6, 2022.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up on the first day of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall on May 14, 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up for the Week 3 game against the Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on Sept. 26 2021.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears defensive back DeAndre Houston-Carson (36), right, celebrates after intercepting the ball in the end zone against the Miami Dolphins in the second quarter at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) throws the ball away with pressure from Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) in the first quarter Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) rushes for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields passes the ball during the second quarter against the Vikings at Soldier Field on Dec. 20, 2021.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields gets tackled by Packers linebacker Jonathan Garvin on third down during the third quarter at Soldier Field on Oct. 17, 2021.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields celebrates a 20-9 win over the Raiders on Oct. 10, 2021, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields throws during warmups before the Week. 7 game against the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 24, 2021.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Bears quarterback Justin Fields warms up before the game against the New York Jets on Nov. 27, 2022, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields (1) calls out a play in the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field on Aug. 14, 2021.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Vikings defensive end D.J. Wonnum tackles Bears quarterback Justin Fields during the third quarter at Soldier Field on Dec. 20, 2021.

By Brad Biggs | bmbiggs@chicagotribune.com | Chicago Tribune

PUBLISHED: August 16, 2021 at 3:56 p.m. | UPDATED: August 16, 2021 at 8:05 p.m.

With Matt Nagy’s future as the Chicago Bears coach staked to Justin Fields’ performance, he’s making it abundantly clear the overarching goal throughout the preseason is to get the rookie quarterback up to speed ASAP.

Whether that means Fields will start in Week 1 at SoFi Stadium against the Los Angeles Rams remains to be seen. Certainly, that move would satisfy the overwhelming majority of the fan base.

The Bears are preparing Fields to be QB1, and whether he’s in that role Sept. 12 or at some point later in the first half of the season, they can’t hinder his long-term potential by waiting a few weeks to promote him.

Before practice Monday morning at Halas Hall, Nagy was clearly upbeat about Fields’ debut in Saturday’s 20-13 preseason victory over the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field. Fields helped rally the Bears from a 13-0 deficit with three scoring drives after the offense went three-and-out on his first three series.

The goal this week is to get another long look at Fields when the Buffalo Bills come to Soldier Field on Saturday.

Andy Dalton will start and play a little more than he did against the Dolphins — he got two series that also went three-and-out — and then it will be the Fields show. That ought to tell you which direction Nagy and his assistants are moving as preparation for the season ramps up.

“Andy will play a little bit more,” Nagy said. “But we’re still going to try to get as many reps as we can for Justin. We lost a possession in the first half when they got the ball. We tried to get a possession at the end of the half and we knew we were coming back in the third, but Andy and some of those starters will play a little bit more. But we still have to get Justin going.”

That’s enough to infer that Dalton is on borrowed time as the starting quarterback — which shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone after the Bears traded up to draft Fields in a bid by general manager Ryan Pace and Nagy to reboot the offense and buy themselves some job security in the process.

Fields wasn’t perfect Saturday. He was quick to maneuver out of the pocket, but he did so with a purpose — searching downfield for a target — and he will stress defenses with his athletic ability. At one point, the Bears scored on three consecutive possessions, and ultimately that’s the biggest factor in the whole process: finding ways to spark what has been a moribund offense the last two seasons.

“I’ll always go back to just making sure that we all, when we evaluate those guys at that position, we’re evaluating the entire package, right?” Nagy said. “And Andy had six plays, and, yeah, it’s hard to say much good or bad about that. So we’re going to get him some more snaps this coming preseason game.

“And then with Justin, we want to be able to see live plays, live situations, and he got that and he did a great job. The only thing he can do is to continue doing that, and then we’ve got to make sure that that plan allows us to evaluate how well he does knowing those circumstances. Ultimately, whatever is best for the Chicago Bears is in the end what we’re going to do.”

That’s the path Fields can take to the starting job for Week 1 against Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey and the talented Rams defense. The Bears will continue to mix in reps for Fields with the starters in practice, and he could get time with some of the front-line players against the Bills.

Nagy understands the hype surrounding Fields. It’s real, and the Bears feel it inside the building as well. If they didn’t, that would be an omen things were not progressing well. It’s quite the opposite.

“We all want him to play really well,” Nagy said. “That’s a good thing for him to go out and play well. At the same point in time, we knew going into this … that anytime there’s something that goes wrong for a guy like Andy, that’s going to be there if Justin’s playing well.

“This is something that we’ve planned for and prepared for and we want to make sure. Justin understands all of this. That’s what I love about him: He understands the plan. He understands the process. They all do. And we asked him to go out and play well on game day, live, and he did.”

In the end, Fields took one step closer to a promotion.

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Chicago Bears |
Column: Whether it’s Week 1 or later, Matt…

Chicago Bears |
Column: Whether it’s Week 1 or later, Matt Nagy’s top preseason goal is clear — preparing Justin Fields to be the Chicago Bears starting quarterback

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