What Bears Trading QB Justin Fields Means for Lions

Bears have moved on from quarterback Justin Fields.

The Detroit Lions are likely going to face stiff competition from the Green Bay Packers in order to repeat as NFC North division champions. 

According to NFL Network, the Chicago Bears have agreed to deal quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, ending months of speculation.  

Pittsburgh, who recently acquired quarterback Russell Wilson, are reportedly sending a conditional sixth-round pick that has the potential to become a fourth rounder depending on Fields' playing time. 

Earlier this offseason, the Vikings also lost their starting quarterback, as veteran Kirk Cousins signed a long-term contract with the Atlanta Falcons. 

Fields, 25, told Lions wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown in a recent podcast appearance that the rumors became irritating and that he had a strong desire to remain in Chicago. 

“Of course I want to stay. I can’t see myself playing in another place. But if it was up to me, I would want to stay in Chicago. I love the city. The city’s lit," Fields said. “The fans there are great, and the people. It’s a business. I ain’t got no control over it; whatever happens, happens. I think the biggest thing with all this going on right now, I just want it to be over. Like, just let me know if I’m getting traded, let me know if I’m staying, this and that.”

Lions' Updated Offensive Depth Chart

Chicago, barring a draft trade, is expected to select quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. 

General Manager Ryan Poles has added offensive talent the past couple of seasons, as wideouts Keenan Allen and DJ Moore should provide a young rookie quarterback reliable and established targets to throw to. 

New Lions cornerback Amik Robertson posted on social media his confidence in his and the Lions ability to handle the offensive weapons of the Bears. 

Chicago also added running back D'Andre Swift in free agency. 

The Lions and Bears split in their two games played in 2023 with each team winning at home. 

With several rivals in the division fielding new signal-callers in 2024, Detroit's pathway to repeat as division champions becomes slightly easier.