NFL speculation: The qualities the Bears are seeking in a potential trade involving Justin Fields.

The Chicago Bears face a significant decision regarding their quarterback position in the upcoming offseason. Holding the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, they have the option to choose USC’s Caleb Williams as their new quarterback or retain Justin Fields in that role. If the Bears opt for Williams, it’s anticipated that they will seek to trade Fields, with speculation suggesting they might finalize this decision before the draft to enhance their collection of draft picks. Reports indicate that Chicago could be looking for a second-round and fourth-round selection in exchange for Fields.

Courtney Cronin of ESPN noted that when exploring potential trade offers for Fields a couple of months ago, sources in the NFL hinted at a similar package involving a 2024 second-round pick (No. 51) and a 2024 fourth-round pick from a hypothetical team like Pittsburgh. The idea behind trading Fields would not necessarily be a lack of confidence in his quarterback abilities, given his early career potential demonstrated with the Bears. Instead, it stems from the irresistible opportunity to acquire a player of Williams’ caliber.

Despite having used the 11th overall pick on Fields in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Bears might find it challenging to pass up the prospect of adding someone like Williams to their roster. There is already reported interest from several teams in Fields, making a second and fourth-round pick a seemingly reasonable asking price. The outcome will be intriguing to observe, as the Bears weigh the potential return in a trade against their reported conditions for parting ways with Fields.