NBC broadcaster has faith in Bears, Justin Fields originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
After the Bears' Week 2 loss against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, some fans and pundits aren't sold on the team's outlook for this season or the future.
But, one NBC broadcaster elected to see the sun behind the clouds.
"I feel really good about the foundation, the salary cap and all the stuff they're doing," NBC broadcaster Mike Tirico said on ESPN 1000. "It might not manifest itself in a record that shows it, but I feel good about what this season can be for the Bears after we went through this week."
Tirico mentioned he's had an ample number of conversations with head coach Matt Eberflus, general manager Ryan Poles, broadcaster Cris Collinsworth, Rodney Harrison and others about the Bears. Based on his conversations and insight, Tirico has faith the Bears are on the right path to creating an exciting team.
It's no secret this season won't be the prettiest. Fans and casual spectators know this. The organization brought a blitzkrieg of roster moves through the team, sending Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers and allowing Akiem Hicks, Allen Robinson, and others to say their goodbyes in free agency. In turn, Poles chose to bring on low-value veterans to fill the gaps in the roster until they invest in higher caliber players with more cap space in the future.
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But, to say the Bears' future is in jeopardy because of a loss to the Green Bay Packers is a premature contention. The Bears have a new staff and plenty of new players, including 15 rookies who saw their first NFL loss on Sunday night. It's important to remember the process of revamping a team takes time.
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In terms of the main focus of this season -- Justin Fields -- Tirico feels upbeat about his potential too.
"I think they want to see what this year is but I think they're committed to him [Fields] right now," Tirico. "He's talented. He's a leader. Voted a captain is very strong internal support. Guys know."
Along with the Bears' outlook, some had similar sentiments about Fields as a result of the loss and his horrific stat line. Fields ended the game against the Packers with 70 passing yards from seven completions.
Though Fields' performance on Sunday night earmarked potential disaster to some fans, Tirico doesn't project a poor outlook on his future. He has reason to believe Fields could be the long-term solution if he maintains consistent, positive development this season.
There's time left to progress him, according to Tirico.
"Now let's see what happens through the next 3-4 weeks," Tirico said. "Let's see you against Houston -- good team, but not a great team. Let's see how we do this week. He's a young quarterback who's gonna have to prove himself but a good running game will help him prove himself.
"I think he can get there. I do."
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