FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields expressed his surprise at being demoted last week, stating, “I did not anticipate it whatsoever.” This marks Fields’ first public statement regarding the benching, and while he is determined to reclaim a starting position in the NFL, he hinted at uncertainty about his future with the Jets, despite being under contract until 2026.
Following a disappointing performance, Fields was replaced by Tyrod Taylor, who will lead the Jets in their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at MetLife Stadium. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn explained that the decision was made in hopes of enhancing the passing game, which currently ranks last in the league for yardage. Fields, however, did not agree with the decision, noting, “You can call it what you want, but AG thought it was justified, and he makes the decisions around here.”
Fields had signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets in March, expecting a full season to prove himself as the long-term starter. This is not the first time Fields has faced a setback; last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he was replaced by Russell Wilson after starting the year 4-2.
Reflecting on his recent demotion, Fields shared, “The first day it happens, it’s tough. It probably took me a day and a half to fully accept my role. Then last Friday, I felt myself in kind of a ‘Damn’ moment to where it was like, ‘Yeah, it’s actually real.’” He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and expressed belief in his potential to earn another opportunity. “I’m blessed to be in this position, and I know I’m going to get another shot,” he stated.
As a former first-round pick by the Chicago Bears in 2021, Fields holds a record of 16-37 as a starter, with a current 2-7 mark with the Jets. He finds himself ranking 29th out of 33 qualified passers in Total QBR but remains confident in his skills and mindset, insisting he has what it takes to be a starter. He acknowledges the challenges faced in his career, stating, “It’s the ups and downs of life, and I’m in a — quote-unquote — valley right now. But it’s not going to do anything but make me stronger on the back end of it.”
Looking forward, Fields is set to earn $20 million next season, including $10 million guaranteed, but his future remains uncertain as the Jets may look to change their quarterback situation, either by drafting a new player or acquiring a veteran. When questioned about the possibility of returning as a backup, Fields chose to focus on the present, asserting, “I’m not going to have that mindset in terms of, ‘Oh, they benched me. I’m not [going] to play here.’ I think that’s a bad mindset to have.”
Fields’ resilience and commitment to maintaining a positive perspective during this time may serve as a testament to his character as he navigates this challenging phase in his career.