3 positive signs after 1 week of Chicago Bears Training Camp
By Ryan Heckman
1. Luke Getsy has done wonders for Justin Fields’ mechanics
When Luke Getsy first took over and had his crack at putting his initial imprints on Justin Fields, one of his priorities was working on Fields’ drop-back and release. Already, in just a few practices, you will notice a much quicker release and a clean, crisp drop-back.
One of the videos tweeted out by a fan showed a simple drill, with Fields taking the snap, turning around and faking a handoff. However, immediately after the fake handoff, while facing to the right side of the field, he turned around, hesitated for a split second before turning to his left and rolling out.
Those who have watched the Green Bay Packers for years will notice that this move comes straight out of the Aaron Rodgers book of tricks. It was a very pleasant surprise to see Getsy teaching this mechanism to Fields.
It’s one thing for an offensive coordinator to come in and promise he’ll work on his new quarterback’s weaknesses, or try to improve him in certain areas. It’s another thing to see it in real, live action.
With Fields’ speed and his love of throwing the long ball, this small, simple maneuver could bode well for the offense. There will be two options for Fields after a quick hesitation fake like this. First, he’ll freeze the defense and find a man downfield. Second, he’ll freeze the defense for just long enough to take off and do the rest with his legs.
Getsy’s imprints are all over Fields’ mechanics so far, and it’s incredible to see take place. The growth is real, folks. It’s happening right before our eyes.