The Bears Are Working On Justin Fields' Football IQ This Summer

DETROIT, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 01: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears throws a pass in the second half of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 01, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images) Mike Mulholland/Getty Images

Justin Fields showed off his immense talent last season, making modest improvements as a passer while excelling outside the pocket.

The Chicago Bears quarterback constantly created his own offense with 1,143 rushing yards. As he enters his third season, the Bears are looking for Fields to grow more comfortable reading NFL defenses.

On Wednesday, Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy discussed working with the 24-year-old on determining when to run and when to throw.

“With the running part of it, most of that is a natural thing once you’re in the moment,” Getsy said, via Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune. “But the decision-making, we’re working on every day. Timing and rhythm, we’re working on every day. And lastly, the situation you’re in. Putting that all together, you’re just increasing the football IQ so you know better when to take those opportunities and when not to.”

Getsy identified plays last year where he didn’t think Fields should have taken off running, but he turned it into a positive play anyway. He thus thinks the quarterback should trust his instincts to a certain extent.

“By no means will I make that guy robotic,” Getsy added. “I don’t believe in doing that with any player.”

An improved supporting cast should also help Fields make better choices. The Bears landed a top receiving target in D.J. Moore and beefed up a leaky offensive line by drafting tackle Darnell Wright with the 10th pick.

Getsy identified OTAs and minicamp as the time to focus on fundamentals and football IQ. Fields will look to build a rapport with his new teammates while continuing to evolve as a quarterback.