Mel Kiper Jr. offers wild Justin Fields trade scenario that actually makes sense

ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. offered a wild Just Fields trade scenario on the latest episode of the First Draft podcast, and, if you dig a little deeper, it actually makes a ton of sense.

Here’s what Kiper said:

Oh really. pic.twitter.com/XaWL8uaUal

— Bryan Perez (@BryanPerezNFL) January 15, 2024

Most NFL analysts have suggested the Chicago Bears would get (at best) a second or even third-round pick in exchange for Fields, who, despite possessing an electrifying skill set, still hasn’t ascended into a sure thing at quarterback.

Kiper, however, thinks the Atlanta Falcons could be willing to part ways with the No. 8 overall pick for Justin Fields, and it’s a logical theory.

Think about it: what are the Falcons’ alternatives at quarterback? Use the pick on Michael Penix Jr. or Bo Nix? That’s a reach, it’s a bigger reach than using the pick to trade for Fields.

Who would the Falcons take with the eighth pick if they don’t trade it and don’t take a quarterback? Perhaps they’d land one of the top two offensive tackles, but the real value at that selection is trending to be a wide receiver. There’s no way Atlanta will go skill player again after back-to-back-to-back draft classes that featured a tight end, wide receiver, and running back in the first round.

That leaves Justin Fields, who, at 24 years old, offers more upside than any quarterback that will be on the board when the Falcons are on the clock. Sure, there’s uncertainty with him, but there’s uncertainty with all of the 2024 NFL Draft prospects (regardless of position), too. And if Fields develops into a legitimate franchise quarterback in Atlanta? It will go down as a steal in favor of the Falcons, even if they have to pay him a massive contract extension a few seasons earlier than whoever they’d take at No. 8.

Here’s something for Chicago Bears fans to consider, too. If trading the No. 8 pick for Justin Fields is a ludicrous idea, then the question about what the Bears should do with the first overall pick is already answered. They should select Caleb Williams. There’s no doubt Atlanta would trade the No. 8 pick (and future first-rounders) to move up for Williams.

Doesn’t that speak volumes?

I trust the godfather of the NFL Draft. When Mel Kiper offers some insight, it’s best to listen rather than debate. And if he thinks the Chicago Bears could pull the No. 8 pick for Justin Fields? Perhaps there’s a real chance they do.

What do you think, Bears fans? Is Justin Fields worth the No. 8 overall pick? Create your free user account (by clicking on the show comments button) and share your opinion! And if you’d like an ad-free experience on Bears Talk, consider upgrading to a premium account. It’s just $3.49 per month (or better yet, $29.99 per year.) You’ll unlock our exclusive NFL Draft content, too. Bear Down!