Justin Fields, a former Ohio State standout, talks about his reunion with a former Jets teammate.

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, a player’s journey often involves unexpected twists, from college glory to the pros, and sometimes from one team to another. For Justin Fields, the former Ohio State quarterback who became a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, his road has been one of growth, challenges, and, perhaps most significantly, reunions. This year, Fields finds himself reconnecting with a former teammate from his college days—one who shared the same ambitions, faced similar trials, and is now on a new journey together with the Chicago Bears.

The Early Days: Ohio State and the Bond That Began

Fields’ story as a standout quarterback began at Ohio State University, where he was a part of the Buckeyes’ potent offense. During his time in Columbus, Fields shared the field with numerous future NFL talents. But one of the most significant friendships he forged during this time was with a player who would later join him in the NFL—wide receiver Garrett Wilson.

Wilson, who was a key figure in Ohio State’s explosive offense, eventually made his own way to the NFL as a first-round pick, selected by the New York Jets in the 2022 draft. Fields and Wilson had already developed a unique connection on the field during their time at Ohio State, making their eventual reunification in the NFL all the more intriguing.

At Ohio State, Fields’ ability to read defenses, paired with his strong arm and agility, paired perfectly with Wilson’s dynamic route-running and exceptional catching ability. Together, they formed a devastating combination that often left defenders helpless. Their chemistry was undeniable, and it was clear to anyone watching that these two young stars had the potential to shine at the next level. But as life often does, it separated them when Fields went to the Chicago Bears and Wilson was drafted by the Jets.

The NFL: A New Chapter and Different Paths

Fields’ entry into the NFL was met with a great deal of fanfare. As a high draft pick, much was expected of him, and the Chicago Bears were hoping Fields would help turn around the franchise’s fortunes. His first two seasons in Chicago, however, were marked by struggle. A lack of offensive support, combined with a coaching staff trying to figure out the best way to maximize his talent, led to inconsistent performances. Despite flashes of brilliance, including incredible rushing performances, Fields was often left trying to do too much on his own.

Meanwhile, Garrett Wilson was finding his own way with the New York Jets. The Jets, in their own rebuilding phase, were hoping Wilson would be the dynamic weapon that could help their offense take a leap forward. His rookie year was nothing short of impressive. Despite the Jets’ offensive struggles, Wilson quickly became a go-to target, impressing fans and analysts alike with his route running, hands, and ability to make big plays in critical situations.

Yet, despite their individual struggles, there was always the feeling that something was missing. Fields and Wilson were both young, gifted, and eager to prove themselves in the NFL. But their respective teams, while full of potential, were not necessarily ready to compete at the highest level. Both Fields and Wilson found themselves working with imperfect circumstances, yet continuing to show flashes of what they were capable of.

A New Opportunity: Reunion in Chicago

Fast forward to the 2025 NFL offseason, and both Fields and Wilson are now at different points in their careers. Fields, after another offseason of reflection, has fully embraced the challenge of leading the Bears in a high-pressure environment. Meanwhile, Wilson, fresh off an impressive second year with the Jets, is now looking for new opportunities after a trade to the Chicago Bears, reuniting with his former Ohio State quarterback.

This move, while a surprise to many, makes a great deal of sense for both players. The Chicago Bears, after an underwhelming season, are looking to surround Fields with the talent he needs to take the next step. A reunion with Wilson, who already knows how Fields plays and how to complement his style, gives both players the chance to flourish in a system designed around their strengths.

Wilson, for his part, has always spoken highly of Fields and their time together at Ohio State. “It was always easy to work with Justin,” Wilson shared during a recent interview. “We had a chemistry that I’ve never really had with anyone else. He’s a competitor, he’s talented, and he’s a guy who wants to win. I can’t wait to show Chicago what we can do together.”

Fields, on the other hand, expressed similar excitement about the reunion. “Having Garrett here is going to make a huge difference,” Fields explained. “We’ve been through a lot together. We’ve talked about this moment since our Ohio State days, and now that it’s finally happening, we’re going to make the most of it. Garrett’s a guy who can get open, he can stretch the field, and he can make big plays. That’s exactly what I need.”

The Importance of Chemistry

In football, especially at the quarterback-wide receiver level, chemistry is everything. Fields and Wilson already have a deep understanding of one another’s tendencies. Fields knows how Wilson likes to attack defenders, whether it’s with precise route running or his ability to adjust on the fly. For Wilson, he knows the ball will be where it needs to be when Fields is on the move—Fields’ ability to extend plays and deliver strikes while on the run is a skill not every quarterback possesses.

But beyond the football field, Fields and Wilson share a mutual respect for one another. This respect was born out of years of hard work, trust, and a shared goal: to reach the highest level of success in the NFL. While Wilson’s transition from college to the pros was largely smooth, Fields’ journey was a bit more tumultuous, as the Bears struggled to surround him with the talent needed to succeed. But with the reunion of Fields and Wilson, both players are ready to write a new chapter in their careers.

The Bears’ New Offensive Scheme

Under the leadership of head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, the Chicago Bears are shifting toward a more dynamic and explosive offensive attack. The signing of Wilson is a clear signal that the Bears are serious about providing Fields with the necessary weapons to succeed.

For Wilson, this new offensive system offers him the opportunity to thrive in a more wide-open offense, one that plays to his strengths as a deep threat and playmaker. This is not to say that Wilson’s days as a short-to-intermediate receiver are over, but the expectation is that he’ll be utilized in a more versatile role—one that allows him to stretch the field and become an even more dangerous weapon.

For Fields, this offensive system is an ideal fit for his skill set. His ability to extend plays, combined with his strong arm and quick release, makes him a perfect fit for a system that emphasizes both the deep pass and quick, efficient throws. Fields’ ability to read defenses, coupled with the trust he has in Wilson’s ability to get open and make plays, gives the Bears an offensive foundation that could take them to new heights.

The Road Ahead: Championship Aspirations

Both Fields and Wilson are aware of the high expectations that come with their reunion. The city of Chicago is known for its passionate sports culture, and fans are eager for the Bears to become contenders once again. Fields, who has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his early career, knows that this is his time to prove he is capable of leading a franchise back to the promised land. The addition of Wilson provides him with a legitimate weapon in the passing game, one who can be relied upon in clutch situations.

For Wilson, the move to Chicago represents a fresh start—a chance to continue his upward trajectory as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers. The combination of Fields and Wilson could be the spark that ignites the Bears’ offense, allowing them to compete with the league’s elite teams.

Conclusion: A Partnership Built for Success

As Fields and Wilson embark on this next phase of their careers together, the excitement surrounding their reunion is palpable. For Bears fans, the hope is that the duo’s connection from their Ohio State days translates seamlessly to the NFL, where they can elevate each other’s game and lead the team to victory. With the right pieces in place, both players have the talent and drive to succeed at the highest level, and the sky is the limit for this reunited duo. The journey is far from over, and the best may be yet to come for Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson in Chicago.