Jets seemingly avoid worst-case scenario in injury to QB Justin Fields

Jets quarterback Justin Fields was carted off the field Thursday after suffering a dislocated toe during practice, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

The severity of Fields’ injury remains unknown, but the Jets appear to have avoided a worst-case scenario with a toe injury rather than one to the knee or lower leg. Furthermore, the affected toe was not fractured, nor is it the big toe, per Rapoport.

Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said, via ESPN’s Rich Cimini, that he believes Fields’ toe was stepped on during a play. 

Glenn expressed confidence in Fields’ backup, Tyrod Taylor, a journeyman quarterback who played for four different teams over the past five seasons.

“We have an outstanding backup in Tyrod, who’s been in this league for around 14 years,” said Glenn. “[With] the leadership he brings, we’re all good.” 

Glenn also noted that Taylor brings a similar skillset to Fields that will allow the Jets to continue developing their offense with minimal interruption.

“I don’t think there’s any drop-off as far as what we want to do in terms of play-calling,” continued Glenn, via Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano. “We’re all excited to have that guy here.”

That excitement won’t continue if Fields’ injury is more severe and he ends up sidelined for an extended period of time. It appears initially that the Jets have avoided major disaster, but further testing will provide a more definitive outlook.