Justin Fields is the Chicago Bears’ future at QB. But HC Matt Nagy has still maintained that offseason addition Andy Dalton is the starter to fill the gap between Fields’ development. And Dalton is using all his veteran experience to mentor his new rookie teammate.
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The Bears brought in veteran QB Andy Dalton for the 2021 season. Last season with the Cowboys, Dalton started in nine games after Dak Prescott went down with a season-ending injury. Going 4-5 as a starter, Dalton completed 64.9% of his passes for 2,170 yards with 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Andy Dalton is the starter for Week 1. But Justin Fields taking over the starting spot is a matter of when not if. Justin Fields was named backup to Andy Dalton over Nick Foles, who is third string.
Andy Dalton talked about how he is mentoring Justin Fields
11 years in the league, Dalton definitely has a lot of experience on his resume. And he certainly doesn’t mind passing that on to the rook.
“I’m trying to give him advice on certain things, how I would view certain plays, what I’d do with my eyes on certain things, different things that come with experience,” Dalton said, via ESPN. “Obviously, I’m going into Year 11. I’ve had a lot of ball. For me, I’m just trying to help him out as much as I can.”
“I knew the situation I was going into, regardless of if they drafted somebody or they didn’t,” Dalton continued Wednesday. “One-year deal, and I was going to be the starter. I already knew that I’m going to do everything I can to be the best player I can for this team and to help us win a lot of football games,” the veteran signal-caller continued. “Whatever happens after this year happens. But my mindset didn’t change because they drafted Justin.”
Andy Dalton’s career in Chicago will probably be a short one. But his experience will be invaluable to Justin Fields and his progression. If Dalton can do what Alex Smith did for Patrick Mahomes, the Chicago Bears will be playoff favorites for many years to come.
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