4 reasons Bears QB Justin Fields deserves his NFL Top 100 ranking

4. Players understand context

Looking at the talent surrounding both Fields and Lawrence last year, it wasn't close. Lawrence was set up for far more success than Fields, and the players understand.

Washington wide receiver Terry McLaurin took notice of exactly that:

"Justin has really fought through a lot of adversity. I think everything hasn't been ideal for him, in his situation in Chicago, with the coaching changes and some injuries. He's never complained or pointed the finger."

Because this list is done going into the coming season, players get a chance to look ahead at what's to come, in conjunction with what happened last year. Fields' peers know that the Bears have now put more talent around him in terms of playmakers and protection. They also have to take notice of the fact that the Bears' defense should be better, too.

The Jaguars went out and added a lot of talent for Lawrence last year, while the Bears underwent a coaching and general manager change. Chicago began tearing apart its roster and preparing for what will be an even better, and noticeably different season, in 2023.

The players are well aware that the Bears were a year behind Jacksonville when it comes to building around their quarterback, but that shouldn't undermine the talent that Fields possesses.