Justin Fields already appeared doubtful to play in Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints after being described as “week-to-week” on Monday, and Wednesday’s practice provided another indication that his return may not be imminent.
Here’s the latest on the Chicago Bears quarterback.
What’s the Latest on Justin Fields?
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus told ESPN 1000 on Monday that Tyson Bagent will start at quarterback against the Saints and said Fields remains “week-to-week.”
Although Chicago only held a walkthrough Wednesday, the team’s injury report described Fields as “did not practice” with a right thumb injury. It’s just the latest sign that the Bears might not have their third-year quarterback back on the field in the near future.
MORE: Chicago Bears Depth Chart
Fields dislocated his right thumb during Chicago’s Week 6 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He has not played since then after completing 100 of his 162 pass attempts for 1,201 yards, 11 touchdowns, and six interceptions as the Bears went 1-5 in his six starts to open the season.
Eberflus said last week that Fields was on track to avoid surgery and a trip to the injured reserve. He also said Fields was working with trainers and would be able to return after the swelling subsided and his grip strength returned.
It’s unclear at this point where Fields stands in that process at this point.
Bagent relieved Fields against the Vikings and has started each of the Bears’ two games since then.
The rookie out of Division II Shepherd University led Chicago to a 30-12 win over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7 before last week’s blowout loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Bagent has completed 56 of his 80 pass attempts for 477 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions so far this season.
He will get a chance to continue building on those numbers this week and potentially moving forward as Fields continues to rehab the thumb.
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