Walking the line: Chicago Bears must perform delicate balancing act with Justin Fields

LAKE FOREST (Ill.) -- Justin Fields, a rookie for the Chicago Bears, is a delicate balance.The No. 2 quarterback is technically the second-string. The No. 11 overall pick from Ohio State caught the eye of Chicago's top-line players. He already has a heady comparison with one of the best in the NFL at the position.The Bears, despite the praises from their teammates, are heading into Saturday's first preseason match against the Miami Dolphins (1 p.m.). ET, NFL Network -- The Bears are sticking to the plan they had for Fields when they started training camp. Andy Dalton, a veteran quarterback, has been taking the majority of practice reps. He has been named the starter for Week 1.Best of NFL Nation Bears must balance with FieldsRams' Donald doesn't seem to be slowing down at thirtyWhat's the next step? How Burrow is moving forwardBaldwin's work fuels McLaurin at WFTWhy the Jets are rolling with NFL’s youngest CBsFields will be playing in exhibition games as part of Chicago's preseason plan. This will allow the coaching staff to evaluate Fields' progress. Coach Matt Nagy told reporters that Fields could even play into the fourth quarter against Miami. The Bears will have to balance out the expectations and keep their rookie quarterback healthy over the next few week.Nagy stated, "It's the Catch-22." "You play someone and then they get hurt. You don't play them, and they say they need the reps.Only by watching him play is there any way to evaluate. He needs to be given valuable reps."Fields' aggressiveness during exhibition season will also be something the Bears will need to watch. Fields' college track record has been impressive. Nagy wants Fields not to hold back. However, he also wants Fields smart and to avoid unnecessary shots like the helmet-to-ribs hit he received in the College Football Playoff semifinal match against Clemson.Nagy stated, "Dont" -- the hit he took [against] Clemson.Justin Fields will be able to experience the NFL for the first time in Saturday's preseason opener against Miami. Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire. Photo.We dont need you guys getting speared.Nagy warns against Fields but some of the Bears' most decorated veterans were not afraid to praise them early.Eddie Jackson, Bears Pro Bowl safety, has been vocal in his admiration of Fields' demeanor and work ethic.Jimmy Graham, a tight end who played three seasons for the Seattle Seahawks went even further.Graham stated last week that he loves the child. He is right beside me in the locker area and he wants to do well. He wants to be great. He works hard. He can really throw the ball. It was impressive to see his arm strength.ESPN offers fantasy football for free. ESPN has more people playing on ESPN than any other site. Create or join a league in the No. 1. Fantasy Football game Register now for a free accountI have to match him up with a guy in Seattle at some point. He has the ability to run while making plays, which I believe is a huge plus. It's been amazing to watch him young and focused. It reminds me a lot about Russell Wilson, the Seahawks quarterback.Fields is unlikely to even come close to Wilson's accomplishments -- Super Bowl champion, eight Pro Bowls - the Bears are in great condition for the next decade.However, all of this seems far-fetched. Perhaps there is a stronger correlation between Fields' rookie season and that of Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins second-year quarterback), who started his rookie season on the bench, just as Fields is expected to. He then took over for veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick.Nagy isn't surprised that Tagovailoa and Fields have been practicing together at Halas Hall this week and will face off Saturday at Soldier Field.Nagy stated that they would often go out together on the field and just ask each other questions. That is what I believe is beneficial. It is true. Same for Tua. Fitzpatrick was a great partner for him last year, and now he's his own man. I'm sure they have many questions. They can also get to know each other better now that they are out in person. These men will all be watching one another.The city of Chicago will be watching Fields closely -- something Fields is comfortable with.Every day I learn new things. Fields stated that while many people want to see me play, greatness does not happen overnight. It is a process.