Bears Injury Report: Matt Eberflus has already described Justin Fields as ‘doubtful’ for Week 8 vs. the Chargers

In Week 7, the Chicago Bears were without starting QB Justin Fields. He dislocated his thumb in Week 6 and is set to miss some time. Chicago was at home yesterday and undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent made his first career start in the NFL. He helped lead the Bears to their second win of the season, 30-12 over the Raiders. 

While Bagent played well, the team’s future at QB is Justin Fields. However, it’s unknown how much time he will truly miss and that leaves the door wide open for Bagent. Unfortunately, head coach Matt Eberflus told the media that Fields is already doubtful to play in Week 8 vs. the Chargers.

With Justin Fields listed as doubtful, Tyson Bagent will start again for the Bears in Week 8

#Bears coach Matt Eberflus described QB Justin Fields as doubtful for this week, adding, “He’s just not there yet.” Another week of Tyson Bagent, who really impressed against the #Raiders.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 23, 2023

The NFL is unpredictable at times and Tyson Bagent likely didn’t predict himself to be starting a game for the Bears in 2023.  He was playing at Division II Shepard University last season. However, Bagent is no joe-schmo at QB. Bagent was the Division II Heisman Trophy winner in 2022. Additionally, he holds the NCAA record for most touchdown passes (159) in a career.

In his first NFL start, Bagent was an efficient 21-29 for 162 passing yards and one touchdown in a 30-12 win. Chicago had the run game working in Week 7, putting up 173 rushing yards as a team vs. the Raiders. D’Onta Foreman led the team on the ground with 16 carries for 89 yards and two touchdowns. A solid team win vs. Las Vegas in Bagent’s first NFL start.

Undrafted rookie Tyson Bagnet in his first Career NFL start:

🐻 21/29 (72%)
🐻 186 Total Yards
🐻 1 TD
🐻 97.2 QBR
🐻 1 win

The undrafted rookie ended the largest #Bears losing streak at home in franchise history 🔥😤 pic.twitter.com/X4rSCXFAEa

— Bears Recap (@BearsRecap) October 22, 2023

For the time being, Bagent is the starter while Fields is out. It’s tough to say just how long Fields will be out. His biggest issue is grip strength and being able to throw the ball without any restrictions. A dislocated thumb doesn’t sound like a lot, but it is the thumb on his throwing hand. The Bears were lucky it was not a season-ending injury for Fields and that he did not need thumb surgery. Until he’s back, Tyson Bagent is the QB1 in Chicago.