Former Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Justin Fields (1) reacts after being defeated by the Alabama Crimson Tide in the CFP National Championship Game.  Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Fields takes criticism of his work ethic 'personally'

Justin Fields has been heavily scrutinized as a potential NFL prospect, with critics questioning everything from his ability to make second reads to his arm strength. But Fields said that the one criticism that has bothered him the most is people saying he doesn't have a proper work ethic.

In an interview with Kirk Herbstreit on the ESPN show "QB21," Fields said that he had seen something on social media where his work ethic was being questioned and he said that bothered him more than someone questioning his athleticism or skills.

"I don't know if it's just a thing they were throwing out there or what, but I honestly take that personally," Fields explained. "That's kind of a bigger insult to me than saying that I don't have a strong arm or saying I'm not accurate."

Fields said that while he took the implication that he doesn't work hard personally, it was not something he was worried about. In fact, he said it would only motivate him to work even harder moving forward. Fields is expected to be taken in the top 10 in the draft next month, with many experts believing that the 49ers will take the former Ohio State quarterback with the third pick.

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