PALM BEACH, Fla. – The New York Jets have made a bold declaration regarding their quarterback situation in the post-Aaron Rodgers era. General manager Darren Mougey wasted no time in naming Justin Fields as the team’s new QB1 during the annual league meeting, expressing confidence in the young signal-caller’s ability to lead the team.
“We believe Justin is the starter,” Mougey stated emphatically. “We believe in Justin. We believe we can win with Justin, so we’re excited about Justin.” This statement underscores the Jets’ commitment to Fields, who has been given a two-year, $40 million contract that guarantees $30 million, signaling they view him as a starter-worthy investment. However, this public recognition from Mougey marks a crucial shift in the organization’s communications about their quarterback position, which many fans had been eagerly anticipating.
Mougey didn’t stop at naming Fields the starter; he also shared the Jets’ vision for what they believe Fields can accomplish. He drew parallels to the journeys of former first-round picks Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield, both of whom found success after bouncing around the league. “We have seen some of that as of late and it did [play a factor] as we went through the process, and we think we could have the same,” he explained, indicating a belief in Fields’ potential for revival and growth in a new environment.
Fields comes to the Jets as a quarterback who has experienced ups and downs during his career. Drafted 11th overall by the Chicago Bears in 2021, he faced challenges in his first three seasons, concluding with a disappointing 10-28 record, alongside 40 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions. His time in Chicago ended after being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he showed flashes of promise. In a six-game stint with Pittsburgh, Fields led the team to a 4-2 record, showcasing efficiency with a career-high 65.8% completion rate, five touchdown passes, and just one interception. His performance hinted that he could continue to develop into a more polished quarterback.
Mougey underscored Fields’ unique dual-threat abilities, noting that in four seasons, he has amassed 2,509 rushing yards. “That adds another dimension to the game that’s hard to defend,” he said, illustrating how Fields’ athleticism could greatly enhance the Jets’ offensive scheme.
The Jets are certainly hopeful that Fields can emerge as their long-term solution at quarterback. However, they maintain some flexibility moving forward. With the recent release of 41-year-old Rodgers after just two seasons and Fields now in the fold, they’re not entirely locked into a singular plan. Along with Fields, the Jets have veteran backup Tyrod Taylor, who Mougey suggested is ready to compete, stating, “Tyrod is going to be right on [Fields’] heels.” Adding depth to the quarterback room are 2024 fifth-round pick Jordan Travis and former practice squad player Adrian Martinez, which creates a dynamic where the Jets still have options as they move forward, especially when it comes to the draft.
After the draft, Mougey hinted at potential contract extensions for several key players, including standout cornerback Sauce Gardner and promising wide receiver Garrett Wilson. “Once we get through the draft, we’ll talk about potential extensions for whoever that might be,” he said, demonstrating a commitment to securing the future of core players.
As the offseason progresses, Mougey is also engaged in ongoing contract discussions with receiver Allen Lazard, who is set to make a non-guaranteed $11 million in 2025. The Jets are attempting to negotiate a significant pay cut for him, adding another layer to their roster management considerations. Moreover, Lazard was recently allowed to explore trade possibilities, which could signal further moves on the horizon.
In sum, with Justin Fields now firmly positioned as the starting quarterback, the Jets clearly see this as a fresh start, aiming to turn past disappointments into promising new beginnings. The upcoming season could mark a pivotal chapter for both Fields and the franchise alike, as they look to write a new narrative in New York.
