See who CBS Sports ranked ahead of Bears’ Justin Fields as best backup QB

While there’s an argument to be made that Justin Fields is the most pro-ready rookie quarterback, right now he’s occupying the backup role behind veteran Andy Dalton because the Chicago Bears want to give Fields time to develop.

CBS Sports ranked all 32 backup quarterbacks in the NFL, and it’s certainly not a surprise that Fields landed among the best reserves in the league. He is No. 2 on the list, although he likely should’ve been No. 1, ahead of San Francisco’s Trey Lance, given that Fields is more NFL-ready.

Denver quite literally had the option of adding Fields as the No. 2 instead of Bridgewater and chose otherwise. But most teams wouldn’t hesitate to gamble on the former’s skill set. Will he struggle if/when he takes over for Andy Dalton in Chicago? Probably. But this kid has all the physical tools to be a No. 1. The upside alone, as a potential franchise QB, vaults him up the list.

Matt Nagy caused a stir when he announced that Fields won’t be given the chance to win the starting job in training camp. The plan is not to rush him in his development, but Fields could wind up making things difficult on Nagy’s plan if he proves he’s ready much sooner than anticipated.