In a surprising turn of events, New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields has sustained a right toe injury during Thursday’s practice, prompting head coach Aaron Glenn to address the media. After Fields threw an incompletion, he notably limped off the field, where trainers quickly tended to him by removing his right cleat for examination. Subsequently, Fields was carted off to the locker room for further evaluation, including X-rays. Glenn mentioned that he believes Fields may have had his foot stepped on but is currently unaware of the injury’s severity.
Fields joined the Jets this offseason on a two-year, $40 million contract after spending the previous season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his first season with the Jets, he was looking to make a strong impact following a career defined by ups and downs.
Stepping into the spotlight as the Jets’ backup quarterback is veteran Tyrod Taylor. When asked whether Taylor would be prepared to take the reins if needed, Glenn expressed confidence, stating, “I don’t think there’s any drop off as far as what we want to do when it comes to play calling.” This sentiment highlights the coaching staff’s trust in Taylor’s abilities and the team’s offensive continuity, regardless of who is under center.
Fields, a former No. 11 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, originated his career with the Chicago Bears, where he played three seasons. He was eventually traded to the Steelers in 2024 after Chicago acquired the No. 1 pick in the draft, allowing them to select the highly touted Caleb Williams. Fields had his share of challenges in Pittsburgh, where he split time at quarterback with Russell Wilson, starting the first six games as Wilson nursed a calf injury. In those games, Fields demonstrated his potential by completing 65.8% of his passes for 1,106 yards, boasting five touchdown passes against just one interception. He also showcased his rushing ability, amassing 289 rushing yards with five rushing touchdowns. The Steelers managed a 4-2 record during the games he started, but with Wilson’s return to health, the team opted to move back to their veteran QB.
Since joining the Jets, Fields has made a significant impression on his teammates, particularly on standout cornerback Sauce Gardner. Gardner praised Fields, indicating that he has been delivering throws reminiscent of the elite NFL quarterbacks. “There’s only a certain amount of quarterbacks that can make certain throws,” Gardner noted, acknowledging Fields’ impressive progression. “I’m talking about throws on, like, Aaron [Rodgers’] type of level. When it comes to being able to squeeze those throws in there, I always thought Aaron was the best when it came to that. And it’s like Justin has made a few throws where I’m like, ‘OK, he really been in the lab, for real.’ I could just tell.”
As the Jets navigate this injury situation, all eyes will be on the team as they assess Fields’ condition and prepare for their upcoming matchups, demonstrating their resilience no matter who leads the charge.
