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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Alyssa Barbieri

Report: Justin Fields trade could materialize at the NFL Combine

All eyes are on the Chicago Bears and their impending quarterback decision, where they have to decide whether to stick with Justin Fields or start over with a rookie, most likely Caleb Williams.

With the NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner, action is expected to heat up with all 32 general managers and their staffs in Indianapolis to evaluate some of the draft’s top prospects and take care of some potential business deals.

Bears general manager Ryan Poles is expected to be a hot commodity as he holds the first overall pick and Fields, and he’s likely to get offers for both. Ultimately, it depends on what Chicago elects to do at quarterback.

According to a report from Albert Breer last week, the Bears are expected to have their quarterback plan finalized heading into the Combine. All signs indicate Chicago will draft a rookie, and teams already inquired about Fields at the Senior Bowl.

During an appearance on ESPN 1000’s Kap and J.Hood on Friday, Breer said “the bones of a trade could be in place next week” at the Combine. And he believes a deal for Fields could be made ahead of free agency and the new league year next month.

“In this case, I don’t think you necessarily need the premium to move Justin Fields before the start of free agency,” Breer said. “The reason why is because if you do wait til the end of March or the beginning of April, whatever it is, there are going to be far fewer teams that have a quarterback opening.”

Breer mentioned that the Combine was when the ball started rolling on a trade for the No. 1 pick last year between the Bears and Carolina Panthers. A few days after the Combine concluded, a deal was agreed upon.

“I think that’s why, if you’re the Bears, there’s some urgency to get moving on this,” Breer said. “Because if you’re going to get the best return, the best return is probably going to be available right now rather than three or four or five weeks from now.”

Safe to say next week is going to be an important one for Poles and the Bears, and we could finally get some clarity on their quarterback situation shortly after.

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