Chicago Bears Close to Finalizing Trade for Justin Fields with Atlanta Falcons, Reports NFL Insider
The Justin Fields trade saga appears to be coming to a rapid close, as the Chicago Bears and the Atlanta Falcons are reportedly close to finalizing a deal for the former Ohio State star quarterback. This news comes from NFL insider Tony Pauline, who shared the information from the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. If the deal goes through, it would bring Fields back to his hometown.
According to Pauline, it is uncertain whether the deal will be finalized or announced before the conclusion of the Combine. However, if the Falcons cannot come to terms with the Bears for Fields, they will shift their attention to Baker Mayfield during free agency.
This report follows Chicago GM Ryan Poles’ recent statement that he wants to do right by Fields and would be willing to trade him before free agency begins. The Bears currently hold the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Poles did mention that there hadn’t been any serious trade talks regarding Fields up until that point. Dianna Russini of The Athletic also confirmed this, stating that there didn’t seem to be a strong trade market for Fields.
Leading up to the Combine, there were expectations that a Justin Fields trade could happen quickly, especially if the Bears were satisfied with USC QB Caleb Williams and felt comfortable making him their top pick. Poles expressed the franchise’s desire to provide Fields with an answer as soon as possible, acknowledging that living in uncertainty is uncomfortable.
The Atlanta Falcons have always been a logical landing spot for Fields due to their need for a quarterback under new head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. While there were rumors linking Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, it remains unclear if the franchise actually pursued him. The Steelers have repeatedly expressed their confidence in Kenny Pickett as their starting quarterback, making a trade for Fields unlikely.
The details of the potential trade between the Bears and Falcons are yet to be revealed. It is speculated that the cost for Fields would likely be a second or third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Additionally, the financial implications of Fields’ fifth-year option for the 2025 season will need to be considered, with a decision required by May 2.
The Justin Fields saga is finally drawing to a close, much to the relief of fans and analysts alike. The anticipation surrounding his future team will soon be resolved, and Fields will have the opportunity to showcase his talent in his hometown of Chicago or with the Atlanta Falcons. Regardless of the outcome, it is clear that Fields’ journey in the NFL is about to take a significant step forward.
