Justin Fields is entering the final year of his contract with the New York Jets, aiming to prove he deserves the starting quarterback role. After limited success during his time with the Chicago Bears and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Fields now has a pivotal opportunity in New York, as the Jets look to move beyond the Aaron Rodgers era with a fresh quarterback and head coach duo, including new coach Aaron Glenn.
Despite this chance, Fields’ position remains uncertain due to the structure of his contract that could allow the Jets to move on quickly if he does not meet expectations. The expected arrival of a strong quarterback class in the 2026 NFL Draft raises concerns that the Jets might select a new franchise quarterback, potentially replacing Fields after just one season.
Challenges for Fields in Maintaining Starting Role Amid Jets’ Ambitions
Fields’ brief starting opportunity with the Steelers last year ended once Russell Wilson returned from injury, limiting Fields to only six starts before being sidelined. Still, the Jets saw enough promise to sign Fields to a two-year, $40 million contract, a modest amount compared to the salaries expected of starting quarterbacks in 2025.
However, Fields’ performance through his first four seasons has yet to meet high expectations, and the Jets might be unwilling to give him a longer trial period. The latest mock draft from PFSN suggests that after a disappointing 2024 campaign, New York could draft LaNorris Sellers in the first round, signaling a significant change in direction.
LaNorris Sellers Projected as the Jets’ Future Franchise Quarterback
Analyst Brentley Weissman views Sellers as a critical addition to the Jets’ roster, describing him as
“the final piece of the puzzle”
for coach Aaron Glenn. Sellers, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback from South Carolina, recorded 2,534 passing yards and 18 touchdowns last season, alongside 674 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.
The Jets have a lot to like on their roster and have done well by signing Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner to long-term deals. With their nucleus intact, adding a quarterback of the future makes a ton of sense.
—Brentley Weissman, Analyst
He has rare physical gifts and is much more of an advanced passer than given credit for. With another strong season, I’d be shocked if Sellers wasn’t a top-three pick.
—Brentley Weissman, Analyst
The Jets see Sellers as a talented player capable of unleashing a fresh start for the franchise, complementing their existing core and leadership. If they secure him in the 2026 draft, the team could complete their rebuild just two offseasons after moving on from Rodgers and integrating Fields.
Potential Shift in Jets’ Quarterback Strategy Could Impact Franchise Trajectory
With an established core including stars like Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner, the Jets are poised to make a decisive quarterback move that could determine their future success. If Sellers develops as expected, the Jets may soon have a rare talent capable of throwing for 28 or more touchdowns, intensifying competition for Fields’ starting position.
This looming quarterback decision marks a critical crossroads for the New York Jets, highlighting the urgency and high stakes in Fields’ upcoming season. The organization’s direction over the next two years could redefine its competitive outlook in the NFL and end the franchise’s recent struggles to find stability at quarterback.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How is Justin Fields managing epilepsy? Justin says that he manages his epilepsy by taking anti seizure medication every day. When he takes his medication, he is able to keep his condition under control. This is evidenced by the fact that he has never missed a game because of epilepsy in his career so far.
A. What health issue does Justin Fields have?