FLORHAM PARK, NJ — Despite recent challenges, New York Jets defender Justin Fields was stunned by last week's demotion, saying on Wednesday: “I didn't expect it at all.”
Fields, commenting for the first time on the bench situation, vowed to be an NFL starter again but gave mixed signals about whether he wants to remain with the Jets even though he is under contract through 2026.
Last week, the falling Field was replaced by Tyrod Taylorwho will start again on Sunday against Atlanta Falcons (4-7) at MetLife Stadium. Coach Aaron Glenn said he made the change because he wants more production from a passing attack that ranks 32nd in yards.
Not surprisingly, Fields disagreed.
“You can call it what you want, but the AG felt it was justified and he is the one making the decisions here,” he said.
In March, Fields signed a two-year deal worth $40 million ($30 million guaranteed), thinking he would have a full season to prove he could be the team's long-term starter. But he was benched for the second season in a row. A year ago Pittsburgh Steelers replaced it in favor Russell Wilson despite a 4-2 start.
“The first day it happens, it’s tough,” Fields said, reflecting on the past week. “It probably took me a day and a half to fully accept my role. Then last Friday I felt like I was in some kind of “holy shit” moment where it was like, “Yes, this is actually real.”
“You just have to look at life from a positive perspective. I'm lucky to be in this position and I know I'll get another chance. That's all that matters at the end of the day. So when I do, I just need to be ready for that moment, be the best player I’ve ever been on the field.”
Fields, first round pick Chicago Bears in 2021, 16-37 as a starter, including 2-7 with the Jets. He's 29th out of 33 qualified passers in Total QBR, but still considers himself a starter.
– Certainly. Yes, sir, he said. “I mean, I just know who I am as a person, as a football player, as a hard-working person. I think I know I have the mindset and skills to get there. I just feel like I need to do it on a more consistent basis, but it is what it is.”
“Life has its ups and downs, and I'm in a – quote, unquote – valley right now. But it won’t do anything, it will only make me stronger.”
Fields is scheduled to make $20 million next season, including $10 million guaranteed, but his status is in question. The Jets could reset their quarterback depth chart, perhaps through a draft pick and/or a veteran acquisition.
When asked if he would be willing to return as a backup, Fields was noncommittal, saying he was only concerned about the present. He later added: “I'm not going to think like, 'Oh, they benched me.' [going] play here.” I think that's a bad way of thinking.”
