Chicago Bears: 3 unfair expectations for Justin Fields in 2023

Unfairexpectation for Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields: Rush for 1,000 yards again

Last year, Fields was, at one point, looking as though he would break the all-time rushing record in a single season (for a quarterback) set previously by Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. However, an injury derailed that idea before the final game of the season.

Some fans would love to see him get that close again, but here’s a news flash: It’s not happening.

Fields has publicly stated that he hopes to not have to run as much going forward, and the Bears have done a lot to ensure he gets his wish. As fun as he is to watch use his legs, Fields has a better offensive line and more running backs at the offense’s disposal now.

Fair expectation for Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields: Rush for 700 yards

What’s more realistic, for Fields in 2023, is to rush for around 700 yards. He would likely finish second on the team in rushing, depending on which running back leads the bulk of the carries between Khalil Herbert and D’Onta Foreman (or, who knows, maybe even the rookie Roschon Johnson).

If that number was set in stone, it would mean Fields goes for 41 yards per game on the ground. That seems awfully low, based on some of the games we saw from him last year. But again, this offense is not going to be based around the quarterback rushing. It will be a cherry on top and we’re sure to get some exciting plays here and there, but Fields will probably take a step back and look to protect himself more, as well.