Justin Fields’ departure from Chicago hurt Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson.
Multiple players have claimed that they wanted quarterback Justin Fields to stay in Chicago, but the front administration clearly thought differently and traded Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chicago is anticipated to pick USC quarterback Caleb Williams first overall in the draft. Bears tight end Cole Kmet disclosed that he did not participate in St. Patrick’s Day festivities Saturday after learning from head coach Matt Eberflus that Chicago had dealt Fields to the Steelers.
“Obviously, really upsetting that it came to that, and where it was at that moment, but you kind of felt like the writing was on the wall with that,” Kmet said in an interview with the CHGO Bears Podcast. Appearing on Up and Adams alongside Kay Adams On Wednesday, Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson shared similar comments. “If you truly believe in a guy, I feel like the speculation would’ve been shot down,” Johnson said of Fields’ early trade rumors. “I prepared for the worst when speculation and questions remained unanswered.” ‘OK, let’s already process Justin’s trade.'”
With at least four other teams interested, Fields made it obvious that he wanted to be dealt to the Steelers, and the Bears honored his wishes. Johnson believes that a solid organization, like as the Steelers, is the greatest option for Fields. “Seeing him go to the Steelers may be another way for me to continue to support him from a distance. “Wish him all the best until, of course, he plays us,” Johnson remarked.
The Steelers do not face the Bears in 2024, unless they meet in Super Bowl LIX, which is doubtful. They will, however, play the Bears in Chicago in 2025. Fields’ exceptional athleticism adds a new dimension to the Steelers’ quarterback room. Something the Steelers haven’t had since Kordell Stewart was the quarterback more than two decades ago. Since 2022, Fields has accumulated the most rushing yards by a quarterback, with 1,800 yards and 6.3 yards per carry. Even if he isn’t the starter, as is expected, Fields will still have to be accounted for if the Steelers deploy a special package.
“I think he brings a different element the Steelers haven’t had in a long time,” he remarked. “I know they have some talented young wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs. I know they can do some explosive things with their offensive weapons. I believe the Steelers have needed an extra playmaker. I believe they’ve always had a terrific, solid defense. Defense always performs its intended function. The offensive has always held them back. We don’t have many explosive playmakers. Guys need to be able to get the ball to the playmakers. “I believe he is capable of doing both.”