Justin Fields guarantees he'll be the first 4,000-yard single-season passer in Bears history

Justin Fields certainly doesn’t lack confidence. After recently making headlines for claiming he’s among the best five running quarterbacks ever in the league, he’s declared another bold statement. Fields guaranteed he’ll be the first quarterback in Chicago Bears history to throw for over 4,000 yards in a single season.

“I will. I plan on doing it this year, too. I plan on doing it this year,” Fields said on the “All Things Covered” podcast.

Fields has a long way to go. The former Ohio State star threw for 2,242 passing yards last season and 17 touchdowns. Fields played and started in 15 games for the Bears. The second-year QB completed 192 passes at a 60.4% completion rate.

While Fields’ goal is lofty, it isn’t impossible. Nine players recorded 4,000 passing yards or more last season. This exclusive list was highlighted by Patrick Mahomes’ 5,250 passing yards, good for the fourth-most ever in a single season.

For a more well-rounded view, here’s the full list:

1. Patrick Mahomes (5,250)
2. Justin Herbert (4,759)
3. Tom Brady (4,694)
4. Kirk Cousins (4,547)
5. Joe Burrow (4,475)
6. Jared Goff (4,438)
7. Josh Allen (4,283)
8. Geno Smith (4,282)
9. Trevor Lawrence (4,113)

Justin Fields boasts improved options

Fields ranked 26th in the league in passing yards. Nonetheless, the 6-foot-3 star has reason to believe his numbers could receive a bump this season. In March, the Bears acquired wide receiver DJ Moore from the Panthers.

In 17 appearances last season, Moore recorded 63 receptions for 888 yards and seven touchdowns. The numbers are even more impressive when considering the Panthers had three quarterbacks all start at least five games.

“That speaks volumes for him to adjust to whoever is in the game,” Bears receivers coach Tyke Tolbert said. “He just continues to be a pro, go out and do his job. It’s a credit to him to go out there and make those plays, continue to get open, continue to get in position to be open and make plays when the ball is thrown to him.”

Fields has already developed a chemistry with Moore in the limited time they’ve had to practice.

“I can tell he loves the game, he’s a hard worker, and of course he’s talented,” Fields said. “He’s proven that over the past few years playing with the Panthers. It’s great to have him; another weapon to add to our offense. He’s going to bring a lot of energy, a lot of leadership to the room. Everybody’s excited to have him.”

Moore won’t be Fields’ only talented option. Chicago will also return top receivers Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool. The stacked wide receiver room will give Fields the opportunity for a landmark season. The Bears will begin their 2023 campaign on Sept. 10 against the Green Bay Packers.