FLORHAM PARK -- The New York Jets were back on the practice field to continue their OTA period on Thursday afternoon.
From strong offensive plays to excellent defensive efforts, the Jets continue to compete at the practice field at a very high level. With a new coaching staff, New York looks to improve as one of the youngest rosters in the game.
Following practice, there are some major takeaways to look over.
Let's get to it.
Justin Fields Makes "WOW" Throws
Protect the football, and use your legs when needed. That will be the mindset for Jets quarterback Justin Fields this year if there aren't chances downfield in 2025.
Fields was not perfect on Thursday. He missed some throws and held on to the ball a little longer than normal. Despite this, he made some "WOW" throws on the day that showed exactly why he's this team's starting quarterback.
On one particular throw, Fields faced an all-out blitz but hung in the pocket and threw a dart to his receiver over the middle of the field.
It was just a small sample size, but Fields had a solid day overall.
Arian Smith Excels Without Pads
Let's get this out of the way - analysts and fans won't fully know what the Jets have in their fourth-round receiver until the pads come on. He's easily the fastest player on the field, but has a smaller frame so it's tough to display physicality against him right now.
That said, it's really easy to like what Smith has shown in OTAs so far. He got open on every route thrown his way throughout practice and did not drop a catch once.
I've been very impressed with what Smith has shown to this point. He needs to show he won't get bumped off his routes once the pads come on, but the Jets clearly have something in him.
Joe Tippmann Shows Underrated Skill
Much has been made about Joe Tippmann being in a competition with former Green Bay Packers center Josh Myers. Thursday showed why Tippmann should be the starter regardless going into the 2025 season.
As a 6'6" center, Tippmann is one of the bigger players at his position. Players his size usually aren't known for their athleticism.
He showed his athleticism through drills, though, which showed he can be more than just a mauler.
Tippmann really stood out in individual drills and some team reps. If he continues to play like this, the "competition" at center will be minimal.