Chicago Bears: The panic about protecting Justin Fields is insane

Not every plan needs to be the same for the Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears are in a passing league dominated by quarterbacks, but the trenches can be a way to win the game. When you hear a team won in the trenches in the 90s, what do you believe that to be? That great pass set? Ha, come on now. It’s pancake blocks that hit a defender so hard it echos through their timeline.

The game has changed, but the importance hasn’t. Alright, let me get back to my other example— the Denver Broncos. I know you will bring up how Mark Schlereth signing with the Broncos was the key to the offensive line. Honestly, you would be correct. However, Schlereth was not the player Larry Allen or Erik Williams became.

Schlereth’s best season was in 1998. Tom Nalen, drafted 218th overall (seventh round), replaced Dave Widell at the center position. Journeyman Brian Habib, Nalen, and Schlereth created that blocking chemistry that made Terrell Davis a Hall of Famer in four seasons before the injury derailed his career.

Beyond using the Denver Broncos example, my main point is don’t be overly concerned with the names. The fact that the Buffalo Bills retained Ryan Bates tells us that Ryan Poles knows who to target. He is not out of options, yet the best options remain in the draft. However, Justin Fields needs pass blockers and receivers; you are saying, right? I agree. That is what Ryan Poles has been targeting.

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Lucas Patrick, Dakota Dozier, and Ryan Bates all have their top grades on the passing side. Dozier 88.9 (2016) and 69.2 (2018). Lucas Patrick 75.0 (2019) and 67.3 (2021). Ryan Bates 91.4 (2020) and 74.5 (2021).

I know it probably hurt to see Bates having the highest numbers, but it was done over a much smaller snap count. Try not to let losing out on Ryan Bates discourage you from what the plan for Justin Fields will become.

I don’t think I need to get into Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith, who dominated the run blocking grades while having above-average pass-blocking grades combined. The Chicago Bears line is not set. It won’t be until mid-training camp. Try not to doubt Ryan Poles before he finishes his rookie year as a GM.