In this week’s NFL free agency, former Ohio State standout Justin Fields is a major domino waiting to fall.

In This Week’s NFL Free Agency, Former Ohio State Standout Justin Fields is a Major Domino Waiting to Fall

The 2025 NFL free agency period is already off to a busy start, with several marquee players being courted by teams desperate to improve their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. However, amidst all the trades, signings, and rumors, one name stands out as a significant figure in the league’s quarterback landscape: Justin Fields, the former Ohio State standout. Fields, one of the most electrifying and polarizing quarterbacks to come out of college football in recent years, is the subject of intense speculation this offseason, and his next move could have a seismic impact on the NFL.

Fields’ journey from Ohio State University to the NFL has been filled with high expectations, moments of brilliance, and undeniable potential, all of which make him a prime focus as free agency kicks off. After his college career with the Buckeyes, where he became one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the program’s history, Fields was selected by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Over the course of his young career, Fields has shown flashes of greatness, but the journey hasn’t always been smooth.

Now, with Chicago facing an uncertain future and the NFL landscape rapidly changing, Justin Fields finds himself in a pivotal position. Will he remain with the Bears, or could this be the offseason where he is traded to another franchise? Fields’ situation is one of the biggest storylines to watch during this free agency period, as his next steps will have wide-reaching consequences for both his career and the teams involved.

A Look Back at Justin Fields’ College Career

Before we delve into the current free agency drama surrounding Fields, it’s important to revisit his exceptional college career at Ohio State, which helped cement his status as one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in recent memory.

Fields’ time at Ohio State was marked by remarkable success. In his two seasons with the Buckeyes (2019-2020), he led the team to the College Football Playoff (CFP) twice, and was a key player in Ohio State’s run to the national championship game in 2020. As a sophomore in 2020, Fields threw for 2,100 yards and 22 touchdowns, adding 6 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his dual-threat ability as both a passer and a runner.

One of Fields’ most memorable performances came during the 2020 Big Ten Championship Game against Northwestern, where he threw for 299 yards and 3 touchdowns, helping Ohio State secure the victory and a spot in the CFP National Championship Game. Although the Buckeyes ultimately fell short against Alabama in the national title game, Fields’ play throughout the season solidified him as one of the top quarterback prospects for the NFL Draft.

What set Fields apart was his combination of physical tools: his powerful arm, elite mobility, and poise under pressure. His ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket had NFL scouts and analysts projecting him as a future star at the next level. Fields’ remarkable college career led to him being selected by the Chicago Bears as the 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, where his journey in the pros would begin.

Justin Fields in the NFL: A Promising but Challenging Start

After being drafted by the Bears, expectations were sky-high for Fields, and the future seemed bright. However, his NFL career hasn’t been without its challenges. The transition from college to the pros is never easy, and for Fields, it has been a journey filled with growing pains, high expectations, and frustrations.

Struggles in Chicago

During his first two seasons in the NFL, Fields has shown flashes of his immense potential, but he has also faced significant challenges. The Bears, as a team, have struggled in recent years, failing to put together a solid roster around Fields, especially in terms of offensive line protection and skill-position players. As a result, Fields has often found himself running for his life, struggling to stay upright and make accurate throws.

Despite the challenges, Fields has demonstrated his dual-threat ability, showcasing his explosive running ability and leadership. In his second season, Fields became one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league in terms of rushing yards. In 2023, he amassed over 1,100 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdowns, further proving that he could be a game-changer with his legs.

However, his passing stats have been inconsistent, and despite his raw talent, Fields has yet to put together a truly breakout season as a passer. He has had difficulty with his mechanics, processing speed, and decision-making at times, which has led to criticism from pundits and fans alike. The inconsistency in his passing game has led to a lack of confidence in his ability to become the franchise quarterback the Bears had hoped for when they drafted him.

While Fields has had moments where he displayed his potential as a top-tier quarterback, the lack of stability within the Bears organization has undoubtedly stunted his development. The team has undergone several coaching changes and roster overhauls during his tenure, making it difficult for him to find a consistent system and offensive scheme that fits his style of play.

The Bears’ Situation: A Crossroads

For the Chicago Bears, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of reckoning. With Fields entering the final years of his rookie contract, the franchise must decide whether to continue with him as the future of the team or move on and seek a new quarterback. This decision is complicated by several factors.

The Bears are entering a critical offseason, one where they hold significant draft capital, including the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With a player like Caleb Williams from USC or Drake Maye from North Carolina potentially available, the Bears will have to evaluate whether it’s worth investing in a new quarterback, or if Fields can still develop into the player they need him to be.

Reports have surfaced that the Bears’ front office is divided on the decision regarding Fields. Some believe that with the right coaching staff, offensive system, and supporting cast, Fields can still become the star quarterback the franchise needs. Others, however, feel that it’s time to move on and start fresh with a new quarterback.

The Free Agency Landscape: Where Could Fields Land?

As the 2025 NFL free agency period unfolds, it’s clear that Justin Fields is a major domino in the quarterback market. His potential availability has attracted interest from several teams, particularly those that are either in need of a new quarterback or are looking for a dual-threat signal caller to add to their roster.

1. The Chicago Bears: To Keep or Not to Keep?

The most pressing question for Fields this offseason revolves around his future with the Chicago Bears. The team has been exploring its options for the future of the quarterback position, and the 2025 free agency period could offer them a chance to re-evaluate Fields’ potential with a new coaching staff. If the Bears decide to stick with Fields, they’ll likely need to commit to upgrading their supporting cast—most notably the offensive line and skill players. Fields has shown he can thrive when given the tools to succeed, but his inconsistency has led to growing concerns about his ability to develop into a reliable starting quarterback.

If the Bears choose to part ways with Fields, he could become a major trade target for teams looking to capitalize on his potential. Given the quarterback-driven nature of the NFL, many teams would be interested in Fields if the price is right. The question remains whether Chicago can get enough value in return to justify trading away a player they spent a high first-round pick on just a few years ago.

2. Potential Trade Destinations:

Several teams around the league could be interested in trading for Fields if he becomes available. These teams are looking for a dynamic quarterback with the potential to lead them into contention, especially if they already have a strong supporting cast in place.

• Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are in search of their next franchise quarterback after parting ways with Matt Ryan and Carson Wentz in recent years. Fields could be a great fit in Indy, given their strong offensive line and a talented set of skill players. Fields could develop in a more stable environment and potentially become a cornerstone for the franchise.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: With Tom Brady now retired, the Buccaneers find themselves in search of a long-term solution at quarterback. Fields’ mobility and athleticism could complement Tampa Bay’s offensive style, and he would likely benefit from playing alongside established weapons like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
• Washington Commanders: Washington is another team that could take a flyer on Fields. They’ve struggled to find stability at the quarterback position, and Fields’ potential could be enough to entice the Commanders to pursue him. With a strong defense already in place, Washington could be a good fit for Fields to come in and make an immediate impact.
• Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are in a similar position, with Desmond Ridder currently penciled in as the starter. However, Fields’ upside as a dual-threat quarterback could be an intriguing option for Atlanta, especially with their developing offense led by Kyle Pitts and Drake London.

The Bottom Line: A Make-or-Break Offseason for Fields

The 2025 NFL free agency period could very well determine the future of Justin Fields in the league. After a turbulent start to his career in Chicago, the pressure is mounting for Fields to prove he can develop into the player many believed he could be coming out of Ohio State. Whether he stays in Chicago or moves on to a new team, this offseason will be a critical moment in his career.

For Fields, the next few months will be crucial in determining his legacy in the NFL. He has the talent and potential to be a star, but he needs the right situation to realize that potential. As the free agency period unfolds, Fields is undoubtedly one of the major dominoes