(670 The Score) The Bears are still planning to start veteran Andy Dalton at quarterback, coach Matt Nagy reiterated Monday morning, two days after rookie Justin Fields impressed in his debut in a preseason win against the Dolphins.
Fields remains the Bears' backup quarterback. The team intends to give Fields increased opportunities with the first-team offense as part of his development, but Chicago's plan for Dalton hasn't changed, Nagy said.
"Ultimately, in the end, whatever is best for the Chicago Bears is what we're going to do," Nagy told reporters at Halas Hall on Monday.
Shop for the latest Bears team gear here
Dalton was 2-of-4 for 18 yards in two series in Chicago's 20-13 victory against Miami. The Bears went three-and-out on both series that Dalton led. Fields was 14-of-20 for 142 yards with one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown.
The Bears signed the 33-year-old Dalton to a one-year, $10-million deal in March. The team then traded up in the NFL Draft in late April to select Fields with the No. 11 overall pick. Upon making the selection, the Bears informed Dalton and Fields of their plan to start Dalton.
The Bears aren't feeling pressure to alter their plan based on Fields' preseason performance, Nagy said.
"We all want him to play really well," Nagy said. "That’s a good thing, is for him to go out and play well.
"Justin understands all of this. That’s what I love about him, is he understands the plan, he understands the process. They all do."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.