Justin Fields was unable to complete the Week 6 contest between the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings due to a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand.
Head coach Matt Eberflus provided an update on the status of the Bears’ starting quarterback on Wednesday ahead of their next matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders.
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‘Grip Strength’ Helping Determine Justin Fields’ Playing Status
Eberflus addressed the health of his quarterback to begin his Wednesday presser.
“Update on Just; he won’t practice with us today,” Eberflus began.
He then shared what will determine Fields’ playing status.
“It comes down to grip strength,” Eberflus said. “Where he is later in the week, we’ll see. We think he’s doubtful for this week.”
Fields left during the third quarter of the Bears’ 19-13 home loss to the Vikings after landing awkwardly on his throwing hand. Tyson Bagent took over and scored on a quarterback sneak for the Bears’ final touchdown.
With Fields listed as doubtful, Bagent — the former NCAA Division II record-breaker from Shepherd University — could be in for his first career NFL start as an undrafted rookie.
But if Fields is absent from the huddle, how will DJ Moore, who has showed signs of developing some explosive chemistry with Fields, perform?
Fantasy Impact for DJ Moore if Bears Roll With Another QB
PFN Fantasy Analyst Kyle Soppe broke down the impact of Fields’ status on Moore heading into the Raiders game.
“DJ Moore did have his explosive two-week run, but those are his only top-25 performances this season, and that was largely with Fields under center. Say what you will about Fields as a passer, but this is a clear downgrade and puts Moore in the Drake London range of fantasy receiver,” Soppe said.
“To that end, I prefer London to Moore this week; he’s had six weeks to work with his underwhelming quarterback. The Raiders defense is believed to be a favorable matchup, and while they aren’t a solid unit, the two best receivers they’ve faced this season (Stefon Diggs and Keenan Allen) combined for just 98 receiving yards. Bench him if you have any confidence in the depth of your roster.”