Aaron Rodgers’ stint with the New York Jets has come to an end after two seasons, and now there are talks linking the team to a potential new quarterback. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler mentioned on “SportsCenter” that the Jets could be a dark horse choice for Steelers quarterback Justin Fields, who is set to become a free agent. At 25 years old, Fields had a promising debut season with Pittsburgh, appearing in 10 games and securing a 4-2 record in six starts.
The Jets, among other teams in need of a quarterback, will be in search of someone to fill this crucial position in the upcoming free agency period. Fields stands out as an appealing option due to his dual-threat abilities, making him a valuable asset for teams in need of a transitional quarterback while looking to draft a young talent in the near future.
Listed below are five potential destinations for Fields this offseason:
1. **New York Jets**: Jeremy Fowler hinted that the Jets could be a potential landing spot for Fields, especially with the void left by Aaron Rodgers. The team is in need of a quarterback, and Fields could thrive in New York’s offensive setup alongside skilled players like Garrett Wilson, Tyler Conklin, and Breece Hall.
2. **Pittsburgh Steelers**: Fields has also been linked to staying with the Steelers, where he showcased notable performance improvements during his limited starts in the 2024 season. With established quarterback Russell Wilson also facing free agency, the opportunity for Fields to secure a starting role in Pittsburgh is on the horizon.
3. **New York Giants**: The Giants find themselves in a critical quarterback situation with Daniel Jones, and the decision on his extension remains uncertain. Fields could be a strong contender for the Giants to consider as they navigate their quarterback options.
The quarterback market this offseason presents exciting possibilities for Fields, who is recognized as one of the top young talents available. Teams like the Jets, Steelers, and Giants could provide the ideal environment for Fields to further develop and make an impact in the league.
A blemish on the current regime’s record has left the Giants in search of a new quarterback after parting ways with their former first-round pick last season. Despite having the third overall pick in the upcoming draft, the team finds itself behind two other quarterback-needy teams. Justin Fields emerges as a promising option, a young and versatile quarterback with untapped potential. Giants head coach Brian Daboll, known for his success with dual-threat quarterbacks, could provide the right environment for Fields to thrive. With strong young talent in receiver Malik Nabers and running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., along with the possibility of adding two-way star Travis Hunter, the Giants offer an enticing opportunity for Fields to excel.
Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders are in need of a long-term solution at quarterback and lack a favorable position in the upcoming draft. Fields could serve as a transitional option for the Raiders while they plan for the future. Under the guidance of new head coach Pete Carroll, known for developing quarterbacks, Fields could have the opportunity to secure a starting role in Las Vegas. With support from tight end Brock Bowers and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, Fields could find success with the Raiders.
The New Orleans Saints face challenges with veteran quarterback Derek Carr failing to meet expectations. Fields presents a cost-effective option for the cap-constrained Saints, offering the potential to compete for the starting role alongside Carr. Working with offensive mind Kellen Moore and a talented receiving corps including Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, Fields could rejuvenate the Saints’ offense and provide a fresh perspective on their quarterback situation.
Kamara is also a highly skilled receiver when catching passes from the backfield. If New Orleans is able to strengthen their offensive line, one can easily imagine a Saints offense under Fields resembling Moore’s successful Eagles offense: a powerful running game led by a standout running back, supported by a dual-threat quarterback who excels in play-action situations.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Eagles’ Kellen Moore takes on the role of the NFL’s youngest head coach in the vibrant city of New Orleans. Other potential landing spots for Fields include the Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns. While the Titans and Browns could be considered as options, it is less probable that Fields would end up with either team.
With the first and second picks in the 2025 NFL draft, the Titans and Browns have the opportunity to select their future quarterbacks. While Fields could serve as a temporary solution to bridge the gap and provide mentorship for either Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders, it is unlikely that a 25-year-old pending free agent would readily accept such a role when the draft’s top picks are involved.
Furthermore, the contract offers from these teams would probably fall short in comparison to what Fields could secure elsewhere. Teams facing more urgent quarterback needs, even if only temporarily, would likely allocate more resources towards signing a free agent quarterback rather than investing in a player who is being groomed as the future starter.
This analysis was originally published on USA TODAY, discussing the potential landing spots for Justin Fields, with the New York Jets emerging as a surprising contender for the quarterback’s services.
