Big Ben Backs Fields: Roethlisberger Endorses Justin Fields as Bears' Starting QB

Ben Roethlisberger, a two-time Super Bowl champion and former quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has made a major endorsement of Justin Fields as the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears. This endorsement comes as Fields has guided the Bears through a difficult schedule in the first six weeks of the 2024 NFL season, leading them to a solid 3-3 record.

Speaking on his podcast “Footballin’ with Ben Roethlisberger,” Roethlisberger commended Fields’ recent accomplishments, pointing out in particular his performance against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 6, where he threw for 236 yards and two touchdowns in a victory of 27–24.

“Justin Fields has earned the right to be the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears,” Roethlisberger said. “He’s demonstrating his ability to make plays both as a passer and a runner, and most importantly, he’s leading this team to victories.”

The impending quarterback dilemma in Chicago, where veteran Russell Wilson is awaiting his injury return, was another topic Roethlisberger touched on. Wilson, who won a Super Bowl, was signed by the Bears last season but hasn’t played.

“Russell Wilson is an exceptional quarterback, but right now, Justin Fields is the best option for the Bears,” said Roethlisberger. “He’s the one leading this team and winning games.”

Given that Roethlisberger is a future Hall of Famer and has led the Steelers to two Super Bowl championships, his endorsement is quite significant. His endorsement of Fields, a rookie quarterback currently in his third NFL season, is a significant show of trust.

The Growth of Fields in 2024

Throughout the 2024 season, Justin Fields has made great strides and developed into a dynamic playmaker for the Bears. He has thrown for 1,392 yards, 11 touchdowns, and just four interceptions in six games. With 271 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, he is a dangerous player as well.

Fields’ success has been largely attributed to his dual-threat skill, which has also made the Bears’ attack more adaptable and difficult to stop. He has been a tremendous asset to Chicago because of his capacity to prolong plays and make significant contributions both on the ground and in the air.

The Quarterback Dilemma for the Bears

When Russell Wilson fully recovers, the Bears will have to make a tough choice. Wilson, a former MVP of the Super Bowl, was brought in to offer leadership and expertise. However, it would be difficult to convince Fields to be benched in favor of Wilson given his previous performances.

Fields appears to be the quarterback the Bears need right now as they try to qualify for the playoffs. The NFL has taken notice of Fields’ recent accomplishments, and if he keeps up this good work, he may establish himself as the Bears’ long-term quarterback.

It’s still unclear who will start until Wilson is fully recovered, but it will be hard to deny Fields the starting position if he keeps leading the Bears to win.