New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields will enter the 2025 season with the ability to squash the narratives surrounding him.
After four years in the league, with the Chicago Bears and the Pittsburgh Steelers last season, Fields hasn't consistently shown that he can be a full-time starter in the league.
But under coordinator Tanner Engstrand, could he?
That'll be the hope. With Garrett Wilson as his main weapon, a solid offensive line, and a run game led by Breece Hall, Fields does have some tools to work with, but some are skeptical of whether he can bring it all together.
The Athletic thinks he can but on one condition.
"His no-nonsense approach is winning over teammates and coaches, but can it translate to on-field success?" The Athletic writes. "If they add a No. 2 receiver, this might be the best supporting cast of the former Bear’s career, which gives the 26-year-old a chance to consistently play to the potential he’s flashed."
New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields (7).
New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields (7).
John Jones-Imagn Images
Behind Wilson are Josh Reynolds and Allen Lazard. That is a solid duo, but not great.
And that's where The Athletic's rumor-like suggestion comes in.
Free agents Keenan Allen, Amari Cooper, and Gabriel Davis are the top players still available, but we aren't sure Aaron Glenn, who has overseen a youth movement this offseason, would want to add veterans to the mix.
Of course, there are pros to getting, say, Allen in the building to pair him with Wilson or Cooper as a third receiver, which would give Fields some different avenues to go with the football.
The run game will be crucial in the success of the offense, but giving Fields more than just Wilson as a go-to weapon might give him the best chance to "break out" in 2025.