The New York Jets signed Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million contract this offseason.
The move was seen by some as a low-risk, high-reward move to try and find the franchise quarterback. Meanwhile, some see Fields as just a stopgap until the Jets can find a more permanent solution to the position.
Regardless, 2025 is a prove-it year for the former first round pick. If Fields has the franchise quarterback potential that resulted in his No. 11 overall selection, he'll have to show it this year for Gang Green.
Optimism runs high across the NFL during this time of year, and Jets camp is no different. Early returns on Fields seem positive, and he's surrounded by one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.
Protected by that offensive line with a few talented skill players, with Fields' big-play ability, Fields may just be set up for the breakout season his believers have been waiting for.
Fields has posted impressive marks in OTAs, as noted by X user NYJ Matt.
"During the Jets 1st OTA practice, Justin Fields hit a top sprint speed of 21.86 MPH wearing a GPS tracking vest" NYJ Matt posted. "This is the fastest recorded sprint speed at a Jets practice since Next Gen Stats began tracking OTAs in 2017"
If Fields can truly put together a stellar campaign, the Jets have finally found their answer at quarterback. Sports Illustrated's Daniel Flick is counting on an impressive season from Fields. In Flick's second "Way-Too-Early 2026 NFL Mock Draft", the Jets, slotted at the No. 6 pick, do not select a quarterback.
Instead, Flick surmises that the Jets land Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods.
"The Jets certainly could take a quarterback in this spot if their gamble on Justin Fields doesn’t pay off, but Woods, coupled with Quinnen Williams, Jermaine Johnson II and Will McDonald IV, gives New York a quality defensive front." Flick wrote. "At 6' 3" and 315 pounds, Woods is big, strong, scheme-versatile and loaded with upside. He just needs more seasoning, and figures to get it in 2025."
Woods had a strong sophomore campaign, posting 28 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and three sacks.