Following their impressive victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 5, the Chicago Bears were unable to carry that momentum into their next game, falling to the Minnesota Vikings, their NFC North rivals.
The Bears’ record dropped to 1-5 in the 2023 NFL season, putting them on track for yet another high draft pick in the upcoming year. The game started with a slow pace in the first half, as both teams struggled offensively, though Justin Fields managed to create some positive plays with his legs to extend drives.
Unfortunately, Fields had to leave the game due to a hand injury and was soon ruled out for the rest of the day. This setback came at an inopportune time, as Fields appeared to have found his rhythm in the offense, but now his availability for future games is in question due to the injury.
After the game, head coach Matt Eberflus confirmed that Fields’ X-rays were negative, and he would undergo an MRI for further evaluation, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.
The negative X-rays suggest no fractures in Fields’ hand, but the team will now focus on determining whether it is a simple bruise or something more serious. In Fields’ absence, rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent came in and nearly led the Bears to a comeback win.
Bagent completed 10 of 14 passes for 83 yards, although he did throw an interception. Despite the interception, the rookie’s performance was solid, and he is expected to start if Fields misses any time.
