Bears QB Justin Fields expected to start Sunday vs. Lions

The Chicago Bears are expected to have their starting quarterback back in time for Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Justin Fields is expected to start Sunday — assuming Wednesday’s practice goes well.

Fields has been sidelined for the last month after suffering a dislocated right thumb on his throwing hand. As head coach Matt Eberflus has stressed, grip strength has been a key factor in Fields’ return.

Fields nearly made his return last Thursday night against the Carolina Panthers, but the 10 days between games should do him wonders to get him back to where he needs to be.

Sources: #Bears QB Justin Fields, out the last month with a dislocated thumb, is expected to start Sunday vs the #Lions, assuming today’s practice goes well. The key has been regaining grip strength, and Fields was nearly there before TNF. With a solid practice, he will be. pic.twitter.com/6Oxp4Ta8G4

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 15, 2023

Eberflus told reporters Monday that the Bears wanted to see what Fields can do in team drills and not just individual work, which they conducted during Monday’s light practice.

Eberflus stressed the importance of 11-on-11 drills and seeing Fields “functioning in the game of football.” As Rapoport indicated, Wednesday will be a huge indicator of Fields’ status for Sunday.

Rookie Tyson Bagent has gotten the starting nod at quarterback in Fields’ absence, where he’s proven to be a solid backup. If all goes well, Bagent will be back in his reserve role as Fields makes his return to the field.