Justin Fields vs the Field: How the Chicago Bears QB ranked in 2022
By Peter Jurich
How did Justin Fields’ second season compare to other QBs overall?
Statistically speaking, it is clear that Fields struggled through the air but dominated on the ground. Combined, his numbers might shock some viewers, and realistically, 2022 was a strong foundation for the quarterback’s future with the Chicago Bears.
Putting it all together as a rusher and a passer, Fields finished his sophomore season 16th in total quarterback yards, tied for11th in total quarterback touchdowns alongside Justin Herbert and Tua Tugavailoa with 25, and finished tied for the 11th most turnovers alongside Herbert, Tom Brady, and Russel Wilson. Unfortunately, Fields was tied for the most sacked quarterback alongside Russel Wilson, as both quarterbacks were brought down 55 times in the pocket, and while some of this is certainly due to weak offensive line play, there are moments where he fails to avoid pressure in a timely manner.
Amongst the five starting quarterbacks in their second season (omitting Trey Lance, who had a season-ending injury in Week 2), Fields finished second in total touchdowns behind only Trevor Lawrence, and third in total yards.
Fields certainly has a long way to go as an overall quarterback, but his ability as a rusher, as well as what he was able to do with the near-league bottom talent to throw to should give the organization and fans alike promise heading into his third season. With plentiful resources in draft capital and available cap space, surrounding Fields with dependable receivers and reliable offensive line play to see if he can perform near the top of the league in a normal offense should be priority number one for Chicago in the 2023 offseason.