Bears Say Good-Bye to Field Leader
Chicago said good-bye through social media to Justin Fields and he did to them, as well.
It was an emotional departure for Pittsburgh to play for the Steelers and a classy one, without much said over how little the team got in exchange for their 2021 first-round draft pick.
Fields expressed thanks to teammates as well:
"Can't say thank you enough to the city of Chicago for taking me in and embracing me. Thank you to the entire Bears organization and ownership for allowing me the opportunity to be part of such a historic franchise. But most of all thank you to my all my brothers that I played with. You all were the reason I attacked each day the way I did. I can’t thank you all enough for what y’all have meant to me over the last 3 years through the ups and downs. I wish each one of you nothing but success. Ready for this next chapter!"
GM Ryan Poles, in announcing the move, thanked Fields for his efforts through a statement issued by the team.
“We have engaged in multiple trade conversations in recent weeks and believe trading Justin at this time to Pittsburgh is what is best for both Justin and the Bears,” Poles said. “Today we spoke to Justin to inform him of the trade and the rationale behind it for us as a Club. We want to thank him for his tireless dedication, leadership and all he poured into our franchise and community the last three years and wish him the best towards a long and successful NFL career."
Teammates had messages for Fields as well.
Guard Teven Jenkins had a simple "Love you brother."
Former teammate Justin Jones, who signed this week in Atlanta, said: "Damn bro I wish you had a fair shake over there. Cheers to new beginnings"
Defensive end DeMarcus Walker wrote: "Today isn't easy but it's a business."
DJ Moore, who had argued for Fields staying, doesn't use social media much but said essentially what Walker said: "Business is Business."
Jaquan Brisker didn't seem happy about it. "Don't talk to me ," was his post.
The reaction from Bears fans was a mix between outrage from Fields fanatics to moving on to Caleb Williams, and in between an appreciation from some for the athletic ability they witnessed the past three years.
And some are just weary from too many years seeing the same quarterback situation repeated over and over.
Twitter: BearDigest@BearsOnMaven
