2 min read • June 10, 2022
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When Justin Fields goes under center for the first time in 2022, he will do so with a new man calling plays, a revamped receiving corps, and the unquestioned title of Bears' starting quarterback.
He will also be completely healthy and well past the minor injuries he suffered in his rookie season, to the tune of an SIC health score of 96.
The ProFootballDocs have concern, however, that number has a high chance of dropping during the season because Fields’ out-of-structure playing style puts him at greater risk of injury.
While he will come in healthy, it remains to be seen if he can stay healthy.
The 23-year-old missed five games in 2021 with several issues, the worst of which was cracked ribs he suffered while scrambling for a first down on November 21.
It was the second time he has suffered a rib injury in as many years, the first famously coming during the CFP semifinal in 2021, which he played through.
We have seen the danger of Fields’ dynamic style with nearly all quarterbacks who make their mark outside of the pocket.
Most recently is Kyler Murray, who has now suffered minor mid-season injuries in two consecutive seasons that has derailed MVP-caliber campaigns.
The lone smaller, dense scrambling quarterback who can claim consistent health is Russell Wilson, who is somewhat of a unicorn in that regard.
Fields showed promise and playmaking ability in an otherwise difficult season for the Bears, throwing for 1,870 yards with 420 more on the ground, scoring nine total touchdowns in 12 games, and developing a strong partnership with receiver Darnell Mooney, who had his first career 1,000-yard season.
If Fields can learn to choose his playmaking moments more carefully and better evade tacklers, he will have a true fair shot at taking a leap in his sophomore season under center.
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