The Philadelphia Eagles could emerge as an attractive trade destination for a quarterback with dual-threat abilities.
According to former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi, the Eagles should contemplate trading for Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields. Lombardi suggested on his GM Shuffle podcast that there was limited interest in the 25-year-old during the NFL Combine. However, two weeks later, it’s evident that Fields’ trade prospects have cooled down.
Lombardi expressed, “If I were Philly, I would trade for him.”
Others, including Chicago Sun-Times Bears reporter Patrick Finley, have also floated the idea of Philadelphia as a potential landing spot for Fields, possibly as a backup to current starter Jalen Hurts.
Finley speculates that Fields could vie for starting positions with incumbent quarterbacks on teams like the Titans or Seahawks. Alternatively, the Broncos might see Fields’ manageable $3.2 million salary in 2024 as low risk, or the Eagles might view him as a similarly skilled backup for Jalen Hurts.
Finley also suggests that it’s improbable for a team to offer more than a fourth-round pick for Fields. Given that Philadelphia recently lost their backup from last season, Marcus Mariota, in free agency, acquiring Fields, who has a $1.6 million base salary in 2024, could be advantageous.
With the Bears likely eyeing Caleb Williams with the top pick in the 2024 NFL draft, Fields’ trade value has diminished.
Fields is renowned for his running abilities but has yet to consistently demonstrate proficiency as a passer. Despite holding NFL rushing records, he ranked poorly in completion rate and passer rating last season.
While Fields is unlikely to displace Hurts as the starter, he could serve as valuable trade leverage, especially if he sees playing time due to Hurts’ injury or other reasons. However, there are concerns, as highlighted by Mike Fisher of Sports Illustrated, that introducing a potential franchise quarterback like Fields could disrupt team chemistry.
Despite potential risks, the idea of acquiring Fields, a first-round talent, for a mere fourth-round pick is compelling. If the opportunity arises, the Eagles may find it too enticing to ignore.