It has been a season of highs and lows for the Jets first-year QB. This conclusion brought on speculation as to what his future holds with the team. After signing a two-year, $40 Mil contract in the offseason Fields won the coveted starter spot. He experienced one of the toughest seasons ever on the gridiron, finishing with a dispiriting 2-7 mark. His Total QBR is a dismal 37.3, ranking 28th among the 32 qualified passers. This mark is a far cry from his career average of 45.3.
The 26-year-old quarterback’s lack of a swift development — and significant regression — warranted a change in the field general’s office. After a series of underwhelming games, Fields was benched on November 17. In his final five starts he was able to record only 505 passing yards. Coach Aaron Glenn expressed disappointment over Fields’ struggles, noting, “Any player that doesn’t have the season that we would like for them to have, it’s always disappointing.”
After his benching, Fields’ knee soreness returned two weeks later and he’s since missed the last three games. The injury clearly didn’t slow him down at the practice earlier this month. Keenan Allen listed with a knee problem for only one week. Even the small work done with him lately has put him completely out of contention for competition.
Tyrod Taylor assumed the starter gig in Fields’ absence, he soon faced injury woes of his own. He was injured in his third start, leaving the Jets with an even bigger mess at QB. Fields’ absence is a bit confusing, given the Bears’ what-they-are-doing-isn’t-clear direction with the team.
Fields’ performances leading up to his benching were a mess, filled with struggles and inconsistency. He didn’t like the idea of being used that way as a Wildcat quarterback. Specifically, he even suggested he would be willing to take on a more limited role in that role. Unfortunately, it sounds like those plans never came to fruition as Fields was forced to play while still in pain.
Fields missed Week 3 due to a concussion. He then returned to start seven games, but he never looked like the same player. His actions were so disappointing in Glenn’s estimation that Glenn decided it was time for the team to look for other alternatives at the quarterback position. Coach Glenn stated, “Man, we tried to see how we can get this to work, but it wasn’t getting as better as we would like it.”
Looking ahead, Fields has a huge effect on the team’s finances. In 2026 he’s due to count $23 million against the cap. This figure reflects a $20 million averaging salary, which includes a $10 million guarantee on the deal. This financial commitment only increases the handcuffs as the Jets try to figure out their QB concerns.
In light of these developments, Justin Fields himself acknowledged his ongoing physical challenges, remarking, “I’m still not necessarily as healthy as I want to be right now.” This comment underscores the difficulties he’s faced all year. It further calls into question his suitability for any other future positions.
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