The Chicago Bears are forced to turn to their rookie quarterback Justin Fields for Week 3 game against the Cleveland Browns. Fields will step in for starter Andy Dalton, who is currently dealing with a knee injury.
Dalton got hurt in Week 2 game against the Cincinnati Bengals after landing awkwardly late in the first half. While the injury isn’t considered serious, the Bears don’t expect him to “be available” on Sunday and will give the opportunity to Fields.
“It’s a great opportunity for Justin and for all of us as a staff to be able to take this thing and see where he goes with this,” Bears head coach Matt Nagy told reporters after confirming Fields will start versus the Browns.
Fields, who was Chicago’s 11th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, already saw some action in his rookie season. The Ohio State product was on the field for five snaps in Week 1 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, completing two passes for 10 yards and scoring a three-yard rushing touchdown. In Week 2 he took over after Dalton’s injury and went 6-for-13 while throwing for 60 yards and an interception. He also ran for 31 yards.
“I’ve been preparing for this moment for a long time,” Fields said ahead of his first start as a pro. “My mindset doesn’t change. I’m still going to have to play my football and just prepare the best I can.
Fields will be backed up by veteran Nick Foles, who is currently 3rd on the depth chart after making seven starts in 2020.
