The New York Jets’ training camp has been off to a rocky start, particularly for newly signed quarterback Justin Fields. Despite public reassurances from Fields and head coach Aaron Glenn that it’s too early to panic, Fields’ performance has raised eyebrows.
Over the last three practices, he has thrown multiple interceptions, including three on Tuesday alone, and has been sacked due to holding the ball too long, an issue that has plagued him in the past. While both Fields and Glenn emphasized patience and growth, the offensive inconsistency is hard to ignore.
Fields Struggles to Adjust Amid New System, Limited Weapons, and Mounting Injury Concerns
Fields, who joined the Jets on a two-year, $40 million deal to replace Aaron Rodgers, has struggled to adapt to the new system. Tuesday’s practice highlighted these issues, with Fields completing just 9 of 16 passes and leading a disjointed offensive series that included penalties and a player shortage on the field.
The Jets have endured a bottom-10 scoring offense for nearly a decade, and Fields’ early performance hasn’t shown immediate promise of breaking that trend.
Justin Fields (NFL)Part of the struggle stems from the learning curve Fields faces, he is now in his fourth offensive system in five seasons. That instability, coupled with a lack of weapons outside of wide receiver Garrett Wilson, limits the offense’s ability to click.
Injuries haven’t helped either, as rookie tight end Mason Taylor is sidelined with a high ankle sprain and will miss the preseason opener. His absence, along with others, narrows Fields’ already thin options on offense.
Fields Eager for Preseason Reps as Jets Battle Injuries and Offensive Struggles
Despite the setbacks, Fields expressed a strong desire to play in the preseason games, emphasizing the need for real-game reps to build chemistry with the team and adapt to offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand’s system.
While some NFL teams rest starters during preseason, Fields believes playing is crucial, especially given the newness of this roster and scheme. He appears focused on improvement and sees adversity in practice as a test of the team’s resilience.
The Jets’ coaching staff continues to preach long-term optimism, with Coach Glenn prioritizing progress toward Week 1 over short-term training camp performance. However, injuries are mounting, with backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor missing consecutive practices and several defensive players leaving due to various ailments.
While Glenn insists these are not long-term concerns, the team’s depth is already being tested. If these offensive and injury issues persist, the Jets may face more pressing concerns than just growing pains.
