Jets’ Fields Returns to Practice Following Dislocated Toe Injury

Justin Fields not getting on the field against New York Jets would be an enormous loss. This was especially significant given that he had just been cleared one day prior from a dislocated big toe injury. Fields sat out all team and individual drills for the day’s session. Instead, he turned his attention away from hard workouts toward doing whatever he could to light the fire on the healing process.

The injury occurred when Fields suddenly pulled up while running a play. He was rolling to his right and attempting to throw a short touch pass to tight end Jeremy Ruckert. He sat down for a few minutes on the ground, visibly hurting. A trainer had to sprint up to his aid in order to help him shuffle off the field. The incident freaked out players and fans alike. Nonetheless, early indications suggest that Fields will be good to go for the regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Considering Fields signed a two-year, $40 million deal with New York this offseason, it’s probably wishful thinking. Prior to that, he made six starts for the Pittsburgh Steelers last year. While his biggest adjustment will certainly be learning a new offensive system, he will need to figure out how to build chemistry with his new teammates. Unfortunately, the dislocated toe means he’ll miss valuable training camp reps that are vital to this process.

With Fields out, veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor must assume full command of the offense. Taylor’s extensive experience should offer a steady hand while the Jets work to get through the training camp period with their potential new starter on the shelf. Fields has not played much football over the past year, making this adjustment even more crucial for his development and integration into the team.

Still, even in light of these disappointments, Fields has stayed positive on his comeback schedule. Coaches are hopeful he won’t miss much time. They certainly hope he’ll be as close to full strength as possible when his team takes on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1. Moving forward, the Jets and their fans will be keeping a close eye on Fields as he resumes his rehabilitation process.