Justin Fields, the Bears’ quarterback, returned to practice on a limited basis Friday for the first time since dislocating his right thumb against the Vikings on Oct. 15, but is uncertain for Sunday’s game at New Orleans.
“It’s good to see him back at practice,” said coach Matt Eberflus. “He’s making development on a daily basis now, and it’s encouraging to watch him take the next step. He was as focused on the game plan this week as he has been in the past few weeks.”
Fields is unlikely to play Sunday at New Orleans.
“It’s uncertain right now,” Eberflus stated. “We’re just letting everything happen as it goes, and that’s where we’re at right now. It’s really amazing to watch him throw out there today.”
When asked what he wants to see for Fields to play on Sunday, Eberflus replied, “Just more progression. Continue to work on it. We have a mock game [Saturday] and will proceed from there. He’s recuperating nicely, which is fantastic.
Fields informed reporters that he threw for the first time since his injury on Friday, and that he had to wear a glove on his right hand.
“I just wear a glove because I don’t have to grasp the ball as hard with the glove,” he explained. “It just makes it easier to throw.”
Fields claimed that his grip strength is “not entirely restored” and that he is still in “a little bit of pain.” When asked if he could play in New Orleans if necessary, the Ohio State product responded, “We’ll see.” I have been mentally prepared like… I’m going to play, but let’s see how it feels on Sunday.”
Fields stated that he will know he is ready to play when he can “make all the throws and be able to endure hits and stuff like that throughout the game.”
With Fields uncertain, undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent is expected to make his third NFL start on Sunday. In the previous two weeks, the Shepherd University product completed 72.4% of his passes (21 of 29) for 162 yards and one touchdown in a 30-13 victory against the Raiders and threw for 232 yards in a defeat to the Chargers.
“Tyson’s been fantastic,” Fields stated. “Like I said – what, training camp? – from the moment he arrived, he worked hard. He played quite well in his first game against the Raiders. He played his buttocks off. He just wants to learn every day, and he knows he can come to me with any questions, and I will help him. But he’s been excellent. He has been leading the guys. He’s prepared to depart.
