DJ Moore Admits Caleb Williams Has One Big Advantage Over Justin Fields
Justin Fields had no more vocal supporter in the locker room following the 2023 season than DJ Moore. It wasn’t a big surprise. The two had great chemistry throughout the year. Moore had the best season of his career, topping 1300 yards receiving. No wonder he backed his guy. However, the Chicago Bears were set on their course after they secured the #1 pick for the second year in a row. GM Ryan Poles couldn’t justify passing on a quarterback a second time. Fields hadn’t played well enough, and his contract would only get more expensive. The Bears opted to trade the embattled starter to Pittsburgh, where he’d get a fresh start. They then turned around and selected USC star Caleb Williams last week.
Once it became clear this was happening, Moore took the opportunity to get to know his new quarterback. They shared dinner together during Williams’ private visit with the Bears. He apparently liked what he heard. That soon led to a throwing session with Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze right before the draft. Those sessions have picked up in frequency since Williams’ arrival became official. Moore sat down with Mirror US Sports where he was asked about the young QB. He admitted to already seeing one major strength Williams has that Fields didn’t.
DJ Moore sees the possibilities already.
One of the key strengths a quarterback needs at the NFL level is timing and anticipation. They must be willing and able to throw to spots on a field where a receiver will be, not where they are. This leads to easier completions and great opportunities for yards after the catch. That was the most persistent problem with Fields. He always seemed a second or two late on his reads, waiting for receivers to be clearly open before throwing it. This is what led to lots of pressures, sacks, and passes not being on target.
Based on what DJ Moore said, Williams has no problems with this. He understands how to throw with timing and rhythm. He’s even at a point where he is directing receivers on where he wants them to be when the ball is out. For a strong route-runner like Moore, this must be music to his ears. Few quarterbacks he’s played with had such capability. Williams might be the best he’s ever played with. It appears they’re already building chemistry for the upcoming season. Moore sounds excited.