An NFL coach weighed in on the rumors surrounding the trade of Justin Fields, stating that the NFL effectively called the Bears' bluff and emerged victorious.

Before the Chicago Bears traded quarterback Justin Fields for what some considered a modest return, one NFL assistant coach foresaw the outcome. Speaking to ESPN's Courtney Cronin, the coach emphasized the impossibility of having both Fields and presumptive No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams on the roster, suggesting that the league effectively outmaneuvered the Bears.

The coach's remarks, made before the Fields trade, proved prophetic. Ultimately, the Bears received a 2025 sixth-round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for the 25-year-old quarterback, with the potential for it to upgrade to a fourth-rounder.

ESPN's Dan Graziano reported on March 10 that the market for Fields was nearly nonexistent, with the Bears struggling to secure a valuable pick. Despite hoping for leverage from free agency, the team's potential suitors dwindled. The Atlanta Falcons and the Minnesota Vikings signed Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold, respectively, while the Las Vegas Raiders chose to invest in Gardner Minshew rather than pursue a Fields trade.

The assistant coach's insight sheds light on the Bears' uphill battle in negotiations. General manager Ryan Poles faced pressure to make a decision regarding the No. 1 pick, signaling Fields' imminent departure once a new quarterback was selected.


Drawing a comparison to the Arizona Cardinals' 2019 dilemma with Josh Rosen and Kyler Murray, the coach highlighted the challenge of trading a highly drafted quarterback. Despite the Cardinals securing second- and fifth-round picks in the Rosen trade, it represented a loss compared to their initial investment.

Poles' acknowledgment of the situation's futility and acceptance of the trade offer ultimately positioned Fields for a fresh start with a potential path to a starting role.