Has Justin Fields Launched Himself Back into the Rookie of the Year Race?

For young quarterbacks, success in a rookie season is typically measured by growth, rather than wins and losses.

In the case of Justin Fields, his Chicago Bears have lost their last four games, but the first-year signal caller out of Ohio State is finally starting to look the part; improving noticeably over their last few games and making big-time throws in crucial moments.

Fields and the Bears found themselves down 20-6 midway through the third quarter after a Ben Roethlisberger 10-yard pass to tight end Pat Freiermuth. After that, Chicago stormed back with big play after big play, leading to two Darnell Mooney touchdowns in the second half.

The previous week vs. the 49ers, Fields make absolute magic happen on this 22-yard touchdown run to tie the game at 23.

For Bears fans ready to see Fields take the next step, the last two games couldn't have gone much better despite the losses. Their top quarterback of the future is starting to look the part each week, but how has he held up relative to the competition and could he make enough of a case for some postseason hardware?

Is Justin Fields still in Contention for NFL Rookie of the Year?

Right now at WynnBET, JaMarr Chase remains the clear-cut favorite to take home NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors at -150. He currently is top-3 in the NFL in receiving yards, trailing only Cooper Kupp and Deebo Samuel, but has done it with just 44 receptions on 73 targets. His seven touchdowns are also tied for fourth-best in the league with Adam Thielen and DeAndre Hopkins

Chase is followed by the following candidates for the top rookie honor:

• Mac Jones: +300
• Najee Harris: +850
• Kyle Pitts: +2500
• Trevor Lawrence: +3000
• Justin Fields: +4000
• Devonta Smith: +4000
• Javonte Williams: +4000

Fields appears to be close to out of contention by the oddsmakers, but the Bears' schedule the rest of the way could allow for a possible comeback. After Chicago's bye this week, they host the Baltimore Ravens (who have had issues covering games, especially on the road), and then take on the Lions on Thanksgiving.

Two big performances against Lamar Jackson and on a national stage in the first game of the holiday could catapult Fields back into the top 3 or 4. Looming matchups against the Cardinals and Packers are coming, but if anything, possible upset wins or continued eye-opening performances against two of the best teams in the NFC would open up many eyes to what could be coming.