The NFL’s legal tampering period brought some big moves, and one of the headliners was quarterback Justin Fields leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers to sign a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets, including $30 million guaranteed. Both teams had been heavily linked to the 26-year-old signal-caller, offering him a chance to start in 2025 and beyond, but Fields ultimately chose the bright lights of New York. In his first interview since the move, posted Thursday on newyorkjets.com, Fields revealed what tipped the scales—and it all comes down to new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn.
Fields didn’t mince words about why he picked the Jets. “I think, No. 1, Coach Glenn,” he said. “I’ve played against him early in my career. I know how passionate he is about the game, the way he coaches, the way his players play.” Glenn, who was hired away from the Detroit Lions on Jan. 22 after serving as their defensive coordinator since 2021, was a hot name in this year’s coaching carousel. The former Jets cornerback (1994-2001) signed a five-year deal, and Fields, who faced Glenn’s defenses while with the Chicago Bears, was drawn to his fiery leadership. “For him to want me here is definitely an honor,” Fields added. “I’m going to put it all on the line for him and do all I can to help this team be successful.”
The Jets’ setup was a big draw too. After moving on from Aaron Rodgers, New York needed a quarterback, and Fields saw a roster loaded with young talent—former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson at receiver, running back Breece Hall, and offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. Add in the allure of the city—“When you win here, there’s no better place to win,” Fields said—and the passionate fanbase, and it’s easy to see why he signed early in free agency. The Jets announced the deal on March 13, hyping up their new QB with a slick “DONE DEAL” post on X, followed by a highlight reel the next day.
Meanwhile, the Steelers were left in the dust, despite making it clear they wanted Fields as their starter. Pittsburgh had him in 2024, but a Week 6 benching and limited snaps in specific packages afterward might’ve soured things. Fields said post-season he’d love to return, but his actions told a different story—he reportedly didn’t even respond to the Steelers’ contract offer before the tampering window. Now, Pittsburgh’s quarterback room is a question mark, with only Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson on the roster as they await a decision from 41-year-old Rodgers.
Fields’ move sets up a juicy 2025 matchup when the Steelers visit the Jets at MetLife Stadium. For now, Jets fans are buzzing about their new quarterback, and with Glenn at the helm, Fields has a chance to prove he’s the long-term answer in New York. The Steelers, though, are left scrambling—and wondering what might’ve been.
