Steelers Watch As Bears GM Ryan Poles Makes Interesting Update To Their Quarterback Situation

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been closely monitoring the Chicago Bears' quarterback plans. Just last Monday, a report emerged indicating that the Bears would unveil their quarterback plans within a week. However, that didn’t happen.

On Tuesday, Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk obtained quotes from Bears General Manager Ryan Poles, who refuted the reports, asserting their inaccuracy. Poles was quoted discussing the Bears' current mindset concerning Justin Fields and their quarterback situation.

“The hot topic,” Poles said. “The 1st pick. The quarterback situation. Contrary to reports out there, I have no master plan to present everyone today. This is an opportunity for us to continue to gather information, learn about the different players in the draft, listen to what opportunities could come up and then, at the end of the day, we’re gonna to make the best decision that we can for the Chicago Bears. It will not be based on fear of what could happen with this, what could happen with that. We’re gonna put our information together and make the best decision.”

Poles emphasizes that the Bears are currently uncertain about their plan and are diligently working to find clarity. They are committed to avoiding hasty decisions, prioritizing the well-being of the Bears organization. Additionally, he expressed empathy for Fields, but underscored the importance of making the optimal decision for the team's benefit.

Fields is eagerly awaiting a prompt decision, but Poles acknowledges this desire while reiterating the necessity of taking the required time. It seems that a resolution won't be reached in the near future.

The Bears hold the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and there is widespread speculation that they will choose USC quarterback Caleb Williams. This presents a challenge for the Bears, as they already have Fields under contract. It's probable that the Bears will trade Fields and embrace Williams as the new cornerstone of their franchise.

A lot of interest has been following where Fields will be taking his next snap as quarterback in 2024. Speculation points towards the Steelers in various reports, igniting significant interest among the Steelers and their fans. The notion of bringing Fields to Pittsburgh has stirred excitement, considering the Steelers' traditional approach. However, recent trends suggest that Pittsburgh is willing to embrace innovation, making a trade for Fields a possibility, albeit unconventional.

Steelers Would Have To Deal With Another Project In Fields

Throughout his three seasons in the NFL, Fields, the former 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has experienced a tumultuous beginning to his career. He has demonstrated moments of brilliance, showcasing his potential to become one of the league's most formidable quarterbacks. However, like many young quarterbacks, he has also displayed concerning tendencies and faced challenges that are typical of developing players.

Fields has recorded 40 passing touchdowns along with 30 interceptions, maintaining a completion rate of 60.3% in the NFL. Additionally, he has accumulated 2,220 rushing yards and scored 14 touchdowns on the ground. Despite these interesting individual achievements, his record as a starter stands at 10-28. However, it's important to acknowledge that the challenges faced by the Chicago team extend beyond Fields' performance alone, although some responsibility undoubtedly rests on his shoulders.

Fields' tenure in Chicago has been challenging, marred by coaching and personnel deficiencies similar to those encountered by the Steelers and their emerging talent, Kenny Pickett. Despite the obstacles, Fields' dual-threat ability as a runner is undeniable, adding a dynamic dimension to his game. Moreover, his impressive arm talent has not gone unnoticed, as the Steelers held high regard for him during his NFL entry. Their close association with Fields stems not only from their admiration for his skill set, but also from their urgent need for a quarterback, intensifying the speculation surrounding his potential trade to Pittsburgh.

While the prospect of Fields joining the Steelers is undeniably exciting, it's essential to remember that rumors are just that—rumors—and nothing is set in stone until official announcements are made. Steeler Nation will continue to keep a very close eye on what is going on in Chicago. 

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