LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) -- The time has come.
The Bears are moving forward with rookie Justin Fields as their permanent starting quarterback, coach Matt Nagy said Wednesday.
"He's done everything to show us that he's ready for this opportunity," Nagy said of Fields.
"He's grown to this point. He's earned it. He's worked hard. And now he has this opportunity."
Fields was informed of the Bears' decision Tuesday, he said.
“Grateful for this opportunity and ready to get to work," Fields said.
The decision to start Fields is a departure from the Bears' previous plan for veteran Andy Dalton to remain the team's starter once he returns from a left knee injury, which he suffered on Sept. 19 in the second game of the regular season. Dalton is expected to practice in full Wednesday but is set to move to the backup role.
The No. 11 overall pick in the NFL Draft in April, Fields started the last two games with Dalton sidelined due to injury. Fields was 11-of-17 for 209 yards and an interception in the Bears' 24-14 win against the Lions on Sunday.
The Bears (2-2) visit the Raiders (3-1) on Sunday in Las Vegas. Kickoff is set for 3:05 p.m. CT.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.