Chicago Bears: NFL insider says Justin Fields could play vs. Rams

Week 1 is upon us, and for the Chicago Bears, the mystery and drama is just getting started.

For the past week or so, different rumors and whispers have wondered whether or not the leash on Andy Dalton is a short one. While Dalton will start Sunday night against the Los Angeles Rams, there is a growing sentiment that rookie Justin Fields could end up playing at some point.

Just a few days ago, Rams head coach Sean McVay was asked about which quarterbacks he was preparing for on Sunday night. McVay responded by saying that he would be “naive” not to prepare for both quarterbacks.

McVay’s response had just added fuel to the fire, but Sunday morning, on game day, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport threw gasoline on that fire.

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields could see some action Sunday night against the LA Rams.

Finally, after all this speculation, we hear it straight from the most trusted source around the league. Fields might just play after all, albeit in limited fashion.

"“Based on what Justin Fields did in the preseason… I am also told there is a small package of plays at Fields’ disposal.”"

For months now, head coach Matt Nagy has stayed constant with his plan that Andy Dalton will start Week 1. This is Dalton’s team, and that hasn’t changed one bit since the Bears drafted Fields.

”If he (Dalton) struggles a little bit, do not be surprised if the Bears unveil a little bit of Justin Fields tonight.”

However, as Nagy hinted a while ago, things change. Back in June, Cris Collinsworth talked to Nagy about his quarterback plan. Nagy responded with a pretty telling answer, saying that “there’s so many things that can happen between now and Week 1.”

Well, Week 1 is here and Dalton is still the guy. However, do not be shocked in the least bit if Fields takes some snaps tonight.

While the odds of the Bears winning this game are still slim, the odds of Fields playing are growing exponentially by the minute it seems. Sure, most of the experts are picking Chicago to come away with the victory. But, in the end, the most important takeaway will be in regards to Fields’ performance if he sees the field at all.

Take it all in, Bears fans. We are less than 24 hours away from a morning that could signal a new beginning for this team. All we can hope for now is that Nagy makes the right decision and gives the rookie a chance.