As the Bears continue their downward spiral, the topic of the quarterback position has been hot in Chicago. The conversation has ranged from the chances of landing the No. 1 pick and taking USC's Caleb Williams, to the possibility of Justin Fields being dealt.
One thing that continues to play a factor is Fields' health. The first-round pick from 2021 has missed the last three games with a thumb injury. As a result, it has been backup QB Tyson Bagent leading the Bears' offense in recent weeks.
Fields hurt his hand in Week 6, and has been working his way back. He wasn't placed on injured reserve, so he is eligible to return whenever he is healthy enough.
The Bears take on the Panthers Thursday night in a game that has more draft implications on the line than anything else.
Chicago and Carolina have two of the worst records in the league, and with the Bears owning the Panthers' 2024 first-round selection, there will be shuffling atop the draft order after Thursday.
But is Fields going to be playing tonight? The Sporting News has the latest on Fields' status for "Thursday Night Football" against the Panthers.
Where is Justin Fields? Fields is not active today for the Bears' "Thursday Night Football" contest against the Panthers. He will miss his fourth consecutive game as he recovers from his thumb injury.
With Fields sidelined, it will be Bagent getting another start for Chicago. The undrafted QB out of D-II Shepherd has been OK in place of the starter, leading the Bears to a Week 7 win over the Raiders.