Justin Fields Addresses Speculation About His Jets Future After Getting Benched for Tyrod Taylor
The marriage between the New York Jets and Justin Fields hasn’t gone as both parties envisioned after agreeing on a two-year, $40 million deal this past offseason. Following a dominant revenge performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in week 1, Fields has struggled mightily. Rookie head coach Aaron Glenn gave him a long leash.
However, after no improvement, Fields was formally benched heading into Week 12 against the Baltimore Ravens, making way for journeyman Tyrod Taylor.
What Did Justin Fields Reveal to Reporters?
With both Taylor and Fields hurt, undrafted rookie quarterback Brady Cook has taken the reins, putting Fields’ Jets future in further doubt. On Friday, the 26-year-old QB met with the media to discuss his injury status and future.
When asked if he could suit up against the New Orleans Saints this week, he said, “If I’m needed,” before adding, “Yeah, I don’t think I’ll be ready on Sunday.” As of Saturday, Fields is listed as questionable.
As he spoke, Coach Glenn confirmed that Cook would start in New Orleans. Fields shared he’d like to play again this season, responding to a question asking if that’s a consideration, saying, “It’s almost, you think of it. I don’t know to what degree Garrett’s knee was, so I can’t really compare it to mine. But I’m going to try to get it feeling better.”
In terms of his contract, he’s due another $20 million next year, with $10 million guaranteed. If the Jets cut fields, they’d have to shoulder $22 million in dead salary cap.
With the uncertainty, Fields remarked, “I mean, I don’t know what I’m going to eat for dinner tonight, so I can’t even worry about what’s going to happen until after the season. We’ll just see and take it day by day.”
Though he may be on his way out, there are 20 million reasons he should want to stay in the Jets. With his sub-par performance this year, it appears highly unlikely he’d receive a contract of similar value.
According to PFSN’s quarterback impact grades, he’s accumulated a score of 69.0, placing his season ranking at 32. Dating back to the 2021 NFL draft, his great potential was clear; he just needed the right coaching staff around him to properly develop his skill set. Former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Nagy offered little support, and his successor, Matt Eberflus, provided no support.
As potential faded, a semi-successful season as a Steeler saw him poached by the Jets a year later. With his struggles in the Jets, it’s unclear if he’ll ever be a starter again.
Article written by
Jack Aaron
