The Jets recently landed a notable signing as they secured a deal with free agent quarterback Justin Fields on Monday. According to a source, Fields agreed to a two-year contract worth $40 million, with a substantial $30 million guaranteed, as confirmed by The Post.
The agreement came swiftly after the negotiation window opened at noon, although the contract can’t be inked until Wednesday when the new league year officially rolls in. At 26, Fields is now heavily favored to step in as the Jets’ starting quarterback for the 2025 season. The team’s only other seasoned quarterback is Tyrod Taylor, leaving room for a potential rookie draftee next month. However, Fields is expected to have the advantage over both a newcomer and Taylor.
The shift to Fields marks a new era for the Jets as they exit from their previous venture with legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who didn’t meet expectations over two seasons. New head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are making their initial move towards securing a promising quarterback by signing Fields.
For Fields, this will be his third NFL team. There’s a sense of optimism among the Jets that they might have landed a gem akin to a Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, or Geno Smith—quarterbacks who found their footing after bouncing around the league.
Initially selected by the Bears as the 11th overall pick in the 2021 draft, Fields had a rocky tenure in Chicago, much like the Jets’ own Zach Wilson, who went second overall. Fields showcased glimpses of his capability but never fully thrived during his time with the Bears, hindered by having to adapt to two head coaches and two offensive coordinators over three seasons. With a starting record of just 10-28, Chicago traded him to the Steelers last year.
Fields began last season with the Steelers, impressively starting the first six games. His performance included throwing for five touchdowns, rushing for another five, and maintaining a low interception count of one. Despite the team’s 4-2 start, coach Mike Tomlin opted for a switch to Russell Wilson mid-season.
Throughout his career, Fields accumulated 45 touchdown passes, ran for 19 more, and threw 31 interceptions, boasting a career QB rating of 83.9 and a completion rate of 61.1%.
In New York, Fields will have a solid supporting cast. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who shares college roots with Fields at Ohio State, could find this reunion beneficial and encouraging for his continued commitment to the Jets. The roster also includes capable pieces like running back Breece Hall and an improved offensive line, with plans to strengthen their wide receiver and tight end positions further during free agency or the draft.
The task of integrating Fields into the Jets’ offensive scheme falls to new coordinator Tanner Engstrand. He faces the challenge of tailoring his system from Detroit to suit Fields’ versatile skill set, departing from a pocket passer model like Jared Goff’s. Fields’ mobility offers potential in run-pass option situations.
Fields becomes the next quarterback tasked with addressing the Jets’ enduring struggles at this crucial position. Should he take the field for Week 1, he’ll be the fifth different quarterback to start the season for the Jets over the past six years, joining the ranks of Darnold, Wilson, Joe Flacco, and Rodgers.
