Chicago Bears starting quarterback Justin Fields suffered a left shoulder injury in Sunday’s loss to the Atlanta Falcons, according to multiple reports. Fields managed to play through the injury and finish the game. He’s officially been labeled as day-to-day.

Fields’ status hangs in the balance for Chicago’s upcoming contest against the New York Jets. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus should make the wise decision and rest Fields until he’s fully cleared.

The injury couldn’t have occurred at a worse time for Fields, who’s currently enjoying the best stretch of his young career. The No. 11 overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields has rushed for an astounding 410 yards throughout his last three contests. Fields has unlocked his complete potential as a dual-threat quarterback while utilizing his athletic ability. Designed runs and off-script scrambles have helped Fields elevate his game. Fields has totaled 10 touchdowns across that timeframe (six passing, four rushing).

Fields’ recent form may tempt the Bears to keep their prized possession under center. The former Ohio State product is finally proving capable of serving as Chicago’s signal-caller of the future. It’s particularly why the timing of this setback stinks for all parties involved. The Bears must make a responsible decision by prioritizing Fields’ health nonetheless.

The 3-8 Bears remain in rebuilding mode. They’re nowhere near postseason contention, even in a disappointing NFC. They own the conference’s worst record alongside the fellow 3-8 Carolina Panthers. It should remove pressure from playing Fields until his shoulder-related ailment is fully healed and cleared for contact.

The Bears currently own the No. 3 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. In-house scout Kyle Crabbs sent Northwestern offensive tackle (and local product) Peter Skoronksi to the Bears in our latest NFL mock draft. Fields’ latest injury further magnifies Chicago’s need for offensive linemen.

Fields is exceeding his sophomore expectations. Chicago can rest easy knowing they have their quarterback of the future. While his rushing prowess is capturing national headlines, and understandably so, Fields has also flashed considerable growth as a passer. He’s completed at least 60% of his passes in three consecutive contests. It represents the first three-game stretch of Fields’ career where he’s achieved such a feat. Fields has thrown for six touchdowns versus two interceptions in Chicago’s last three outings.

Veteran journeyman Trevor Siemian would replace Fields at quarterback if the second-year signal-caller is unable to start against the Jets, who may have a quarterback controversy of their own. Siemian has attempted just one pass this season, but he’s an experienced quarterback with a 58.9% career completion percentage and a TD:INT ratio of 41:27. Siemian would likely relish an opportunity to start against the Jets, who he played for in 2019.

The Bears ultimately shouldn’t gamble with the health of their franchise quarterback. They’ve flashed necessary growth as a franchise lately. Both Justin Fields and the Bears will enter the 2023 campaign with heightened expectations following another offseason of personnel upgrades via free agency and the draft. A setback shouldn’t be risked. Siemian should play quarterback against the Jets.