Justin Fields Traded to Pittsburgh Steelers

Bears Receive a Sixth-Round Draft Pick

Deal Could Yield a Fourth-Round Pick Based on Playtime

In a stunning move, the Chicago Bears have traded quarterback Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick that could potentially escalate to a fourth-round pick based on playtime. The Bears made the announcement on Sunday, putting an end to months of speculation surrounding Fields' future with the team.

Fields, a former Ohio State star, was drafted by the Bears with the 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. In two seasons with Chicago, he showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to find consistency. He finished the 2022 season with 2,242 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.

The Steelers have been searching for a long-term solution at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger retired following the 2021 season. They acquired Mitch Trubisky in free agency last year, but he failed to impress in his one season as the starter. Fields is expected to become the backup to Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh's first-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft.

The trade marks a significant departure from the Bears' previous stance on Fields. General Manager Ryan Poles had repeatedly expressed his belief in Fields as the team's franchise quarterback. However, the team's recent struggles and Fields' inconsistent play appear to have forced a change of heart.

Fields' departure leaves a void at quarterback for the Bears. They are now expected to turn to veteran Trevor Siemian as their starter for the 2023 season. It remains to be seen whether the trade will ultimately benefit either team, but it is clear that the quarterback landscape in the NFL has undergone a significant shakeup.