The New England Patriots Should Take a Big Swing on Justin Fields

The Chicago Bears have put themselves in a difficult situation. With Justin Fields still on the roster and the number one overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft in their possession, they’ll need to move off Fields if they plan to take Caleb Williams at number one. However, with Kirk Cousins on his way to Atlanta and Russell Wilson on his way to Pittsburgh, the market for Fields crashed. The Patriots would likely give up very little in a trade and could acquire an underdeveloped prospect with a lot of potential in Justin Fields.

The New England Patriots Have Pieces

The New England Patriots have re-signed WR Kendrick Bourne, TE Hunter Henry, and plan to add RB Antonio Gibson in free agency, all to team-friendly deals. Additionally,  they have re-signed cornerstone offensive lineman Michael Onwenu , and they still have the second-most cap space in the NFL. They have the foundation of a good defense with their young stars CB Cristian Gonzales and DB Kyle Dugger, along with the new addition of LB Takitaki from Cleveland. These moves do not indicate a rebuild. The New England Patriots believe they can compete at a high level in 2024. Adding Fields could not only allow them to compete but also give them real hope for the future.

The Baltimore Ravens and Lamar Jackson

Justin Fields has struggled so far in his career, and there is no doubt he is a talented runner, but his passing has left much to be desired. However, similar to Lamar Jackson, Justin Fields has the talent to develop into a great passer. If New England adopted the run-first offense of The Ravens and committed to Fields the way Baltimore committed to Lamar Jackson, Fields could be special. Especially with Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson alongside him in the backfield. The New England Patriots can focus on the run, and when they do pass, move the pocket and let Fields find wide-open receivers coming out of play action. Fields needs a confidence boost and an organization that will stand behind him and his development. The New England Patriots have the perfect opportunity to provide that environment for Fields.

How do you get there?

The New England Patriots first have to trade for Justin Fields, but because of The Chicago Bears’ precarious situation, they’ll likely be able to get Fields on their roster for no more than a 4th or 5th round pick. Next, The New England Patriots currently hold the number three overall pick in the NFL draft. If they do opt to trade for Justin Fields, then there is no need to take a quarterback at three. Instead, use that high pick to grab the sure-fire number one receiver Marvin Harrison Jr and give Justin Fields a real weapon to start his renaissance. Make a few more depth moves at the offensive line and then commit.

Commitment to philosophy is key. Baltimore has doubled down and committed to Lamar Jackson and their defense more than once, and it’s brought them great success. New England should do the same with Fields.