Justin Fields arrived in New York with a point to prove.
A first-round pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, the quarterback struggled through his first three seasons with the Chicago Bears, and departed Soldier Field with a 10-28 record as starter.
Fields mightily impressed in Week 1 but it was still not enough to beat the SteelersCredit: Getty
Fields then landed in Pittsburgh for 2024, where he backed up Russell Wilson for much of the season, even after going 4-2 to open the year with the veteran sidelined by injury.
Riding the bench was never going to cut it for a quarterback who once had dreams of being the face of an NFL franchise, and he soon found himself with a new opportunity to make that reality once again.
The 26-year-old signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the New York Jets back in March, and stepped into the shoes of Aaron Rodgers — who had a turbulent time with Gang Green.
In a rather strange turn of events, the pair lined up on opposite sidelines in Week 1, as Rodgers made his return to MetLife Stadium as a Steeler.
It was the returning vet who stole the headlines, throwing for 244 yards and four touchdowns as he led Pittsburgh to a 34-32 opening day win.
Rodgers admitted post-game that he was ‘happy to beat everyone’ associated with the Jets.
But even on the losing team, Fields caught the eye.
He threw for 218 yards and a touchdown in his Jets debut, while adding two more scores on the ground.
Despite a tight loss, Fields also led all Week 1 quarterbacks in Expected Points Added (EPA) per dropback — an advanced statistic that measures the efficiency of a passer on a per-dropback basis, and provides insight into their effectiveness in contributing to a team’s scoring potential.
His impressive debut might have come as a pleasant surprise to Jets fans, but to teammate Olu Fashanu, it was only a matter of time.
Fields bringing new ‘edge’ to Jets
“He’s just super detail oriented, from the moment that he’s been in the building,” the offensive tackle exclusively told talkSPORT.
Fields impressed with his passing and running against the SteelersCredit: Getty
Despite being beaten in Week 1, Fields has instilled confidence in the JetsCredit: Getty
“You could tell that he came to the team with the edge on him, and I felt like everyone saw that last week.
“We know that he’s the type of guy, through good and bad, that’s always going to be there.
“He’s always going to help lead the entire team.
“And for me personally, having the ability to block for someone like that just gives me a ton of confidence.”
Fields performance breeds confidence ahead of tough test
With an impressive showing against the Steelers, Fields has instilled confidence in the Jets as they prepare for a Week 2 showdown against the Super Bowl favorite Buffalo Bills.
The quarterback arrived in New York with the hope of resurrecting his career, and in the season-opener, exceeded many expectations for head coach Aaron Glenn, who is attempting to rid the Jets of mediocrity.
Fields struggled with the Bears and has hopes of becoming the face of the JetsCredit: Getty
He displayed impressive accuracy, putting the ball into some tight windows, and was a force with his feet.
Fields finished the game with a 79.4 Total QBR, his seventh highest in 45 starts, and the 10th highest amongst passers in Week 1.
Fashanu, who has the tough task of blocking for Fields again on Sunday, believes the confident Jets offense can cause some problems.
“They have a lot of talented players,” he said of Buffalo’s defense.
“I think the biggest thing that comes across the screen is just how disciplined they are. They’re a very disciplined group.
“They’re very athletic. They’re always in the right spot. So for us, we just see it as a great challenge.
“And for me personally, I just can’t wait for that match up on Sunday.”
News
A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.
KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver, 28, has not played in…
All eyes were on Fernando Mendoza — and he delivered. With representatives from the Las Vegas Raiders in attendance, Mendoza used Indiana Pro Day to make a powerful statement, strengthening his case to be the No. 1 overall pick. From sharp throws to confident command, everything about his performance suggested a quarterback ready for the next level. For teams searching for a franchise leader, moments like this carry serious weight — especially when decision-makers are watching up close. The Raiders’ presence only added intrigue, fueling speculation about their intentions at the top of the draft. As buzz builds, Mendoza is quickly shifting from prospect to centerpiece of the conversation. But standout performances come with rising expectations. And one specific element of his Pro Day is what scouts are talking about most. It might be the factor that ultimately separates him from the rest of the class.
BLOOMINGTON, IN — The Raiders have been careful not to prematurely anoint Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first pick overall in next month’s…
Jason Kelce isn’t holding back — and this time, his comments are aimed straight at the Detroit Lions. The former star sparked buzz after roasting the franchise for what he sees as a repeat of a controversial retirement situation that previously left fans furious with ownership. By bringing it back into the spotlight, Kelce has reignited debate around how the organization handles major player decisions. For Lions supporters, it’s a sensitive topic — one tied to past frustrations and lingering questions about leadership choices. Kelce’s remarks have quickly made the rounds online, with fans both agreeing and pushing back on his take. As the conversation grows, attention is shifting back to the decision itself and whether lessons were truly learned. But one specific comparison Kelce made is what’s drawing the most attention. And it might explain why this issue still resonates so strongly today.
The Detroit Lions have threatened to damage their relationship with former center Frank Ragnow after asking him to return a…
A troubling incident has put former Dallas Cowboys player Trysten Hill back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Hill was arrested following allegations of assault involving a pregnant woman, with details from the incident quickly sparking outrage online. Images reportedly showing him smiling after the arrest have only intensified reactions, adding another layer of controversy to an already serious situation. As the case unfolds, questions are being raised about accountability and the broader issue of off-field conduct among professional athletes. Legal proceedings are expected to determine what actually happened, but the public response has been swift and emotional. For many, the focus remains on the severity of the allegations and the impact beyond football. But one specific detail in the arrest report is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could play a key role in how this case develops.
Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill was arrested in Texas for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. Hill, 28, was…
A surprising announcement has left fans stunned as a former quarterback for both the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals has abruptly retired at just 31. The decision came with an emotional message, reflecting on the journey, the challenges, and the “lifelong bonds” formed along the way — a reminder that the game is about far more than what happens on the field. While the move may feel sudden, it highlights the reality many players face as they weigh physical toll, personal priorities, and life beyond football. Fans are now looking back on his career, appreciating moments that may have gone under the radar at the time. Teammates and supporters alike have begun sharing reactions, emphasizing the impact he had inside locker rooms. But one part of his farewell message is what’s resonating the most. And it offers a deeper glimpse into why he chose to walk away now.
FORMER NFL quarterback Chris Streveler has retired from football. The 31-year-old former New York Jet announced Tuesday he was hanging up his…
Jack Pugh Dies at 25 After Stepping Away From Game Amid Mental Health Battle — The Young Star’s Passing Prompts Emotional Tributes From His Former Team, Highlighting Both His Talent on the Field and the Struggles He Faced Beyond It.
A FORMER college football star has died at 25. Jack Pugh, who was a tight end at…
End of content
No more pages to load
