Justin Fields' departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers, especially in swift fashion, was a surprise to many in the organization. Even with the notes of the New York Jets being interested floating out as early as the NFL Combine, Fields took the deal just two hours into the legal tampering period.
The two-year, $40 million deal with $30 million guaranteed was a better deal than the Steelers offered Fields. When he was asked why he left the Steelers, Fields pointed to new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn.
“I think, No. 1, coach (Aaron) Glenn,” Fields said to newyorkjets.com reporter Ethan Greenberg. “I’ve played against him early in my career. I know how passionate he is about the game, the way he coaches, the way his players play. So I think that was the biggest thing for me. And just the opportunity, the fans, of course, the city. When you win here, there’s no better place to win. Those reasons are ultimately why I ended up here.”
Now, the Steelers are in a bit of a limbo with their quarterback situation. Aaron Rodgers is their top candidate, and it does not seem like Russell Wilson will return. Star defensive lineman Cam Heyward commented on Fields leaving the team on the Rich Eisen Show.
“First of all, Justin’s a class act. He’s a guy that works his tail off and wants to lead by example. I was kind of bummed it didn’t work out here. I thought we were going to have a chance to get him. But, I know that dude is going to dominate in New York,” Heyward said.
Fields is set to be the starter for a Jets team hoping to instill a new culture. That culture is going to be built by leaders, including Glenn, who Fields has experience facing and believes in as a coach.
“Our relationship playing against each other means a lot because Detroit, of course, they’ve had a lot of success the past couple of years,” Fields said. “So for him to want me here is definitely an honor, and I’m going to put it all on the line for him and do all I can to help this team be successful.”
The Steelers will see Fields this season when they travel to New Jersey to face the Jets. They will have a chance to get some revenge on him, and it remains to be seen who will be their quarterback, but the Jets represent a new beginning for Fields.
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