The New York Jets' success in 2025 will largely be dependent on whether or not Justin Fields can finally figure it out.
The Jets are well into their training camp schedule, and we've already learned quite a bit about this roster.
However, Jet fans collectively held their breath when new quarterback Justin Fields had to be carted off the field last week. Thankfully, it was just a minor toe injury, and Fields has since returned to the field.
Fields is arguably the most important player on the roster for 2025, so a summer injury would be absolutely devastating. The team gave Fields a two-year, $40 million contract this offseason, and the hope is that Fields can finally figure things out on his third NFL team.
Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports recently identified the 10 biggest wild cards for the 2025 season. On Sullivan's list, Fields came in at the No. 2 spot. The Jets have dealt with poor quarterback play for so long, so it's understandable.
Regarding Fields and the Jets, Sullivan offered the following:
I might be in the minority, but I loved the decision to sign Justin Fields for the New York Jets. At two years, $40 million, it's a low-risk move to see whether or not the former first-round pick can become the latest veteran quarterback to enjoy a late breakout like Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield and Darnold before him. If he does follow in those footsteps, the Jets could be the surprise team of 2025. They have a true No. 1 wideout in Wilson (who has a built-in relationship with Fields from their days at Ohio State), and a defense that was tied with Denver for second in the league a season ago in yards per play allowed. We've seen Fields make impact plays with his legs, and if he can develop as a passer, New York suddenly has a capable quarterback to pair with its stout defense. If he continues to struggle through the air, however, the Jets' ceiling will be lowered.
As Sullivan mentioned, the Jets gave Fields a low-risk, high-reward deal with the hope that Fields could be the next Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield, or Sam Darnold.
If things go well, the Jets would have a relatively cheap, productive quarterback to go with a stout defense. Quinnen Williams, Jamien Sherwood, and Sauce Gardner are elite defenders who deserve to play meaningful football, and that hasn't happened yet largely due to inconsistency from the offense.
In 2024, Fields played in 10 games for the Steelers and threw for 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception. The former first-round pick was unable to hold onto the starting gig, though, and was ultimately replaced by Russell Wilson.
Now, Fields is hoping that the third time's the charm after flaming out with the Bears and Steelers. If the quarterback struggles once again, the Jets are likely doomed to repeat another mediocre-at-best season.
Category: Football
