The New York Jets have officially declared Justin Fields their new starting quarterback. This is quite the change-up for the team. Fields, 26, was the first-round, 11th overall draft pick of the Chicago Bears in 2021. He went on to have a dynamic career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. This move comes as the Jets attempt to jumpstart their offense after finishing last in the league in 2022.
His time with the Steelers showed off his dual-threat potential. He passed for five touchdowns and contributed an additional five rushing touchdowns with a career-high completion percentage of 66%. On top of that, he averaged 50 rushing yards per game, showcasing his capacity to make plays outside the pocket and be a dual-threat weapon. Even with all of his successes, Fields ran into an unforeseen hurdle. No fault of his own at all—he was benched for the first time in his career when Russell Wilson came back from injury.
In an ironic twist, the Jets have signed Fields before. He signed with the Dolphins for two years with $40 million, $30 million guaranteed. This decision is particularly momentous as the team shifts from future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers to a younger signalcaller. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn expressed confidence in Fields’ abilities to lead the team, stating that he is “the right man for the job.”
“I think he has what it takes to lead this offense, to lead this team. I think the sky’s the limit.” – Brandon Stephens
Fields shared his perspective on being benched after being drafted, having experienced it himself with the Steelers. “It was, of course, different for me and a space where I wasn’t necessarily comfortable,” he said. But more than anything, he underscored his openness to change and grow. “I’m not a selfish guy whatsoever, so I just tried to change my perspective, get better each and every day in practice.”
This sudden transition from Rodgers to Fields is a huge challenge and a new opportunity for the Jets. The civilian exec hopes that Fields can inject a new perspective and potential energy into the organization’s offensive strategy. His vibrant playing style and recent stint of success has already brought excitement back to players and fans.
Tyrod Taylor stays in the backup spot behind Fields, giving experienced support as the Jets turn the page on this new chapter. Fields’ talent is brilliant and Taylor’s leadership lights the way. Combined, they might just be the most dangerous duo on the team going into the 2024 campaign.
As Fields heads into what will be his debut as the Jets’ starter, he’s still zeroed in on just doing his job. “I think I did what I was asked to do and I’ve never had a problem with that,” he stated, demonstrating his commitment to the team’s success.
“Coach [Mike] Tomlin made a decision he thought was best for the team, and I’m never going to go against that.” – Justin Fields
With Fields now in New York, the future has truly begun for the Jets. They’re really looking forward to being able to unleash his huge potential. Heading into this new season, all eyes are on Fields. Can he revitalize the Jets’ return to playoff relevance while flipping a long-stagnating offensive script?
Leave a Reply