The Chicago Bears have become synonymous with boring offense in recent years. It's a franchise that's never fielded a 4,000-yard passer and has had a revolving door of failed quarterbacks.
Justin Fields was supposed to break the wheel in 2023, but after a sluggish start to the season, concerns that he'd be the next in that long line of failed passers crept into Bears fans' minds.
However, the last two weeks have restored hope, as Fields has thrown for eight touchdowns and only one interception against the Denver Broncos and Washington Commanders.
In fact, the offense has been surprisingly explosive. After five weeks, the Chicago Bears have the third-most plays of over 20 yards.
Most plays gaining 20+ yards through Week 5:
— Brad Spielberger, Esq. (@PFF_Brad) October 11, 2023
Dolphins - 32
Lions - 26
Bears - 25
The Bears aren't limited to just big plays on offense, either. They currently rank 12th in points scored (23 ppg), ninth in rushing yards (130.8 yards per game), and third in passing touchdowns (11).
It's been a remarkable turnaround for a unit that looked like a significant weakness in 2023. Now, the offense is becoming the Chicago Bears' strength.
Highest graded QBs in the red-zone:
— Brad Spielberger, Esq. (@PFF_Brad) October 11, 2023
Justin Fields - 89.3
Lamar Jackson - 88.1
Josh Allen - 87.9
The calls for the Bears to tank for 2024 NFL draft prospect Caleb Williams have quieted during Fields' hot streak. While some skeptics still think Fields processes too slowly, he's proving over the last eight quarters that he has a remarkable skill set. If he continues on his current trajectory, he'll end the 2023 season as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL.
The best-case scenario for the Bears in 2023 was always for Justin Fields to develop in a competitive season that produced more wins than their 3-14 campaign in 2022. It feels like we're beginning to see that unfold. Chicago might not be a playoff team; maybe they'll only win six or seven games. But if Fields continues to improve and the on-field team product improves, the season will be a success.