LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Wide receiver DJ Moore emerged from his exit interview with coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles, entering the Chicago Bears’ locker room at Halas Hall. Moore gave the meeting an A-plus grade, praising the open and honest conversation. While Moore remained tight-lipped about the specifics, he expressed his support for quarterback Justin Fields, stating that he believes Fields will remain the Bears’ quarterback.
During the discussion, Moore drew comparisons to Joe Burrow’s rookie season with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. Despite the Bengals’ struggles, Moore highlighted Burrow’s progression and success in his second season, ultimately leading the team to the playoffs. Moore emphasized that starting over completely is not ideal for any team.
The Bears find themselves in a unique position holding the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft for the second consecutive year. The decision to draft a new quarterback like USC’s Caleb Williams or North Carolina’s Drake Maye instead of building around Fields presents a potential dilemma. The team’s chemistry and momentum from the 2024 season must be considered to avoid disrupting the positive vibes in the locker room.
The Bears have time to evaluate their options and decide whether to stick with Fields or explore other quarterback prospects in the draft. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy’s role in Fields’ development also came under scrutiny. Fields’ performance ranked lower among qualified quarterbacks this season, raising questions about the Bears’ long-term plans for him.
As the decision-making process unfolds, players like Moore, who will be staying with the team, are closely watching. Moore noted that the Bears should have utilized wide receiver Darnell Mooney’s talents more effectively this season, but could not offer a definitive answer as to why that didn’t happen. However, Moore likely conveyed these concerns to Eberflus and Poles during his exit interview.
The Bears’ evaluations and conversations with players will shape their future direction and roster decisions. While Moore’s support for Fields is evident, it remains to be seen whether the organization will align with his sentiments. Ultimately, honesty and open dialogue are essential for the team’s growth and success moving forward.
In conclusion, DJ Moore expressed optimism about his exit interview with the Bears’ coaching staff and front office. He emphasized his support for Justin Fields and discussed the potential consequences of starting over at quarterback. The Bears face a crucial decision regarding their No. 1 pick in the draft and must consider team chemistry and the input of players. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy’s role in Fields’ development has also sparked discussions. The Bears have months to evaluate their options before making a decision that will shape the team’s future.