In a game decided much earlier, Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields took a big hit against the Kansas City Chiefs early in the fourth quarter.
The hit came on a scramble, as Fields was trying to extend the play on a third-and-goal from the Kansas City six-yard line. Fields gained three yards on the effort before getting taken down by Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill. After the play, Fields got up and appeared woozy, taking a few shaky steps. Chicago wide receiver DJ Moore was quick to wave for the trainers, grabbing Fields and pulling him towards the sideline. The Chicago quarterback seemingly did not want to leave the game, despite the result being long-decided, with the Bears trailing 41-0 at the time.
Props to DJ Moore for being a good teammate after Justin Fields appeared to be injured pic.twitter.com/4syrSMCAGZ
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) September 24, 2023
The Fields scramble was the final play of that Chicago drive, with the Bears getting on the board via field goal after the quarterback run. When the Bears offense next made an appearance, Fields was back under center. In a sign that maybe the hit was not as serious as initially thought, Fields put together his best drive of the game and brought the Bears down the field for a nine-play, 75-yard touchdown drive. He completed the drive with a touchdown pass to Moore, cutting the deficit to 41-10.
Given the blowout nature of the game, the Bears are showing a lot of confidence in keeping their starting quarterback in the game after taking a big hit. Even if Fields wasn't evaluated for a concussion, it feels irresponsible to keep throwing Fields out there given how hurt he looked late in a blowout loss.
It was a long day for Chicago in every way imaginable. Bears fans can take some level of solace in the apparent health of their quarterback after a scary hit, and maybe the late touchdown will help their stagnant offense take some momentum into Week 4, as the Bears head into Week 4 with an 0-3 record and the worst point differential in the NFL.
