The NY Jets HC Aaron Glenn did not make the same mistake that Mike Tomlin made with the Steelers last year. He kept delaying the QB talks before naming Russell Wilson the starter. But a sudden injury to Russ meant Justin Fields had to step up as their signal caller. He won 4 and lost 2 before they benched him. And he never got a chance again. When he joined the NY Jets on a 2-year $40 million deal, the HC named him the starter. It was enough to generate interest in him. But what are his teammates saying? Do they trust him?

The Jets CB Brandon Stephens has also arrived at the Gang Green this year on a 3-year $36 million contract. The Ravens drafted him in the 3rd round (104th overall) in 2021 Draft. So, 2025 will be a testing season for both players, playing in their first season. While talking about Justin fields, he also echoed the HC’s sentiment.

The cornerback hailed Justin Fields as their leader, and said, “I think he’s (Justin Fields) the right man for the job. I think he has what it takes to lead this offense, to lead this team. I think the sky’s the limit.” This perspective is unique to the 26-year-old signal caller.

In his 4 year NFL career, Fields has played enough games to show his talent. In 50 games (44 starters), he has a 14-30 win-loss record. The QB completed 684 of 1119 passes (61.1% completion rate) in 7,780 passing yards, 45 touchdowns, and 31 interceptions. In those 4 seasons, Justin Fields also had 418 rushes in 2,509 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. The talent has been always there. But it will be more about the team that the Jets HC prepares around him.

Even after suffering so many setbacks in his career, the signal caller has always displayed confidence. That’s a trait that will help them overcome adversity.

Justin Fields confident of a good fresh start

The Steelers were always in double mind about his place in the franchise. They refused to sign further extension, making him a free agent after 2024. So, when they came running, this free agency to re-sign him, the Jets were the better choice. The QB didn’t want to sit on the bench again.

Last year was the first time in his NFL career that he watched the game from sidelines. The Bears drafted him in the first round (11th overall) in 2021 NFL draft. And he was their prime starter. However, after everything that has happened, he has left everything behind.

The rumor mill churned that Justin Fields was angry with the Black and the Gold. But he denied those and clarified, “You can’t take things personal. That’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, not to take anything personal. At the end of the day, I was just excited of what the Jets had going on here with AG (Aaron Glenn) and just with the coaching staff, so it didn’t really have anything to do with Pittsburgh.” That’s the right approach.

You can’t hold on to the past while trying to cruise in the future. The task at the Gang Green is very simple. They haven’t qualified for the playoffs since 2010. If Justin Fields and Aaron Glenn can take them into the postseason, it will be their first victory before any further wins. That’s the test they have.