Justin Fields Embraces Leadership Role with Jets After Turbulent Journey

Justin Fields will become the New York Jets’ eighth Week 1 starting quarterback in the past 14 seasons—a testament to the instability he’s stepping into. But for Fields, the challenge ahead pales in comparison to the adversity he’s already faced.

“Of course, it was different for me—a space where I wasn’t necessarily comfortable,” Fields said Wednesday during his first press conference since signing a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets in free agency.

Last season, Fields helped lead the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 4–2 record before being benched for the first time in his football career once Russell Wilson returned from a calf injury. Despite the team’s offensive struggles later in the season, Fields never saw the field again.

Instead of harboring resentment, Fields says the experience shaped him for the better and prepared him for the opportunity in New York. He’ll take over for future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, who was released after a disappointing season.

“Coach [Mike] Tomlin made a decision he thought was best for the team, and I’m never going to go against that,” Fields said of the benching. “I’m not a selfish guy. I just tried to shift my perspective and get better every day in practice.”

Spending the final 11 games and a playoff run as a backup was unfamiliar territory for Fields. The Steelers reportedly wanted to bring him back, but the Jets made an aggressive pitch—including a $30 million guarantee—and the promise of a clear path to a starting role.

Fields, 26, emphasized that the benching in Pittsburgh didn’t drive his departure.

“You can’t take things personally,” he said. “That’s something I’ve learned over the years. At the end of the day, I was just excited about what the Jets were building with AG [head coach Aaron Glenn] and the staff. It really had nothing to do with Pittsburgh.”

This marks Fields’ third NFL stop. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round in 2021, he showed flashes of brilliance but inconsistent play led the team to move on in favor of 2024 No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. Fields was traded to the Steelers, where he threw five touchdowns, ran for five more, and posted a career-best 66% completion rate.

“I think I’m progressing and getting better every year,” Fields said. “I’m excited to get things rolling this season.”

The Jets are showing confidence in Fields, with Glenn declaring him the Week 1 starter and veteran Tyrod Taylor staying in the backup role. Glenn said he made the announcement early to help Fields establish himself as a leader in the locker room.

“I think he’s a dynamic player, and I think there’s more to unlock,” Glenn said recently. “I’m looking forward to seeing him grow as a dropback passer. We all know he can run—he’s averaging 50 rushing yards per game—but there’s more to his game.”

Fields, for his part, is ready to lead.

“I’ve always done what’s asked of me. I’ve always been a team-first guy,” he said, reflecting on his time in Chicago and Pittsburgh.

Even just days into the offseason program, Fields has already made an impression.

“I think he’s the right man for the job,” said newly signed cornerback Brandon Stephens, formerly of the Ravens. “He has what it takes to lead this offense—and this team. The sky’s the limit.”