LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) -- Bears quarterback Justin Fields will play in the team’s preseason opener Saturday at Soldier Field, though his workload will be limited.
Coach Matt Eberflus said on Wednesday that the Bears will play Fields and select starters in their exhibition against the Titans, though each player’s role will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Fields played 18 snaps in the Bears’ preseason opener last year, followed by nine in the second game and 24 in the exhibition finale.
The Bears could be without key starters such as wide receiver Chase Claypool, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and pass rusher DeMarcus Walker, who are each managing injuries. Eberflus and the Bears are forced to manage players’ readiness for the season with their long-term health.
“That’s the blend, right? You’re blending guys that are injured, so that happens naturally,” Eberflus said. “Guys during this time are going to be injured for a day or two, or maybe out a week, so then you get your depth built. So, that’s always a positive thing. The guys that make it through all the way are going to be pretty ready for the game.”
The preseason presents opportunities for younger players to take on key roles in game-like situations, something that those fighting for a roster spot can appreciate.
Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards broke into the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2020, making the Eagles’ roster and earning a place in the league. He signed on a three-year deal this offseason in Chicago.
Edwards knows the importance of the preseason for players who are in the position he once was.
“It’s real,” Edwards said. “You can’t deny it. It’s something that decides a lot of people’s fates, so it’s something you’ve got to take advantage of. At the end of the day, you’re playing a game that you love, that you worked so hard to get here, to this level, and you’ve just got to go out there and be you. That’s all I try to do. That’s all I still try to do. It’s such an easy thing to do to try to be perfect in everything that you’re doing, and this isn’t a perfect game.”
The Bears and Titans kick off their preseason opener at noon CT from Soldier Field.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
Listen live to 670 The Score via:
Audacy App | Online Stream | Smart Speaker