AP Photo/David Banks
Stop the presses: Justin Fields actually got reps with starting wide receivers during Monday’s practice. Sure, he still hasn’t practiced with the first-team offensive line or against the starting defense, but we’re headed in the right direction.
Fields got some reps with wide receivers Allen Robinson, Darnell Mooney and Damiere Byrd, as well as tight end Jimmy Graham.
“The development is somewhere in the middle of ‘much ado about nothing’ and ‘beginning the path for Fields to start,’” wrote The Athletic’s Kevin Fishbain. “It’s slightly closer to the latter, and as we closely monitor everything Fields does, finally getting to throw to starters is notable.”
JF1 to Arob in 7 on 7s pic.twitter.com/hXDmUGKUpl
— Da Justin Fields TailGate Show ™️ (@DaTailGateShow) August 23, 2021
There was an instance during Mondays practice where Fields threw a ball that was just out of Robinson’s react, which is even more reason to continue to give Fields reps with the starters to get the timing down. Especially given Fields is likely to start at some point this season.
Early in practice, Fields was intercepted by safety Marqui Christian. But aside from that, it was another strong practice for the rookie, who will hopefully continue getting reps with starters — maybe even with the starting offensive line — and into Saturday’s preseason finale against the Titans.
