His return to practice on Thursday was a huge step forward for the New York Jets starting quarterback Justin Fields. He’s focused on passing the NFL’s concussion protocol. After suffering a late-game injury during the Jets’ Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Fields recovered. He was all there for non-contact, position-specific drills. He’s coming back at a critical time. The New York Jets are preparing themselves for a big-time, make-or-break match-up Monday Night against the Miami Dolphins.
Fields signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets in free agency. This one-year agreement likely guarantees him a significant role with the team this season. In his first action of the campaign, Fields proved he was NFL ready by going 16/22 for 218 yards and 1 TD. He further wowed by piling on two rushing touchdowns to his performance. Though he avoided a Letdown Game in the next contest against Buffalo, his performance regressed pretty dramatically. He finished with a career-low Total QBR of 1.1, going only 3-of-11 passing for 25 yards and leaving with an injury.
On the bright side, Coach Aaron Glenn was encouraged by the news on Fields’ injury. He did confess that Fields has yet to complete the full concussion protocol. Still, he’s been impressed with the progress Fields has made.
“He still has to go through the whole protocol before he’s totally cleared, but I like where he’s at.” – Coach Aaron Glenn
As long as Fields gets cleared from an independent neurologist, he will regain his spot as the starting quarterback. Glenn reiterated that Fields is still the team’s QB1, and he affirmed confidence in Fields’ ability to deliver an effective spark to the new-look offense.
“If he’s cleared, he’s the starter.” – Coach Aaron Glenn
The Jets are looking to get back on track after their loss to the Bills. They’re counting that Fields’ return will help breathe life back into their offensive attack. Next the team has a big rivalry matchup looming against Miami. It sure pleases ’em to get their starting QB out on the field!
Right now, Fields is just looking to make concussion protocol requirements. He just has to make sure he can be out on the field himself come Monday night. The Jets organization has to be feeling hopeful that their leading scorer will be back in no time. His fans often express that same hope, expecting his transformative presence to flourish during the next crucial game.
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