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Jets Trouble Predicted for Justin Fields Due To 1 Brutal Reason

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated May 16, 2025 10:12 AM ET

We have spoken all offseason that Justin Fields is getting perhaps his last chance to show that he is a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL, with the New York Jets giving him the keys to the offense.

With a supporting cast that includes Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, Mason Taylor, Josh Reynolds, and Allen Lazard, Fields does have something to work with.

But he won't get an easy initiation into the 2025 season with the Jets' full schedule now being released.

The Jets face the Pittsburgh Steelers, Buffalo Bills, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Miami Dolphins in the opening month, for what ESPN's Rich Cimini thinks is a true test of whether Fields can show he is worthy to be the starter.

"So much of the Jets' season hinges on whether Fields can resurrect his career," Cimini writes. "He won't get any favors from the early schedule, as he faces opponents notoriously tough on quarterbacks. In fact, five of the first six games are against defenses that ranked in the top 10 in QBR -- Steelers (first), Bills (second), Broncos (third), Dolphins (sixth) and Buccaneers (10th). The latter two are on the road.

"This is potential trouble for Fields, who also will be operating a new offensive scheme."

It is potential trouble for Fields, and with veteran Tyrod Taylor waiting in the wings, if the Jets start 1-3 or 0-4, the pitchforks might be out for the former first-round pick rather early.

Now, most know that Fields is seen as a bridge player until New York can get the player they want at quarterback, but it is also important for Justin to put his best foot forward as he fights for his career.

In what is a tough opening month, if he can navigate those troubled waters without bottoming out and showing that there is something to work with, then the perception of him might change.

But go 0-4 and look bad doing it, and Fields' tenure as the starter might be short-lived.

Hence, the opening month is crucial in Fields's attempt to reignite his career.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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