Justin Fields zeros down on the one reason why he chose the Jets despite Aaron Rodgers’ mishap last season
After failing to tie down a roster spot in Pittsburgh, Justin Fields signed with the New York Jets because he wanted to play under first time head coach Aaron Glenn.
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Justin Fields says Aaron Glenn is the reason he signed for the Jets (Image via IMAGO)
Even if there was a lingering disappointment in the back of Justin Fields’ mind with how his season with the Pittsburgh Steelers panned out, it hasn’t surfaced yet. Instead, the 26-year-old quarterback is excited to start afresh at the New York Jets and learn from head coach Aaron Glenn.
Fields found his chances in Pittsburgh limited despite showing moments of brilliance. However, the swashbuckling style of play wasn’t a good fit for the Steelers. They opted to release him, and he ended up joining the Jets.
In one of his earlier interviews as a Jets player, the Ohio State graduate revealed the real reason for choosing New York over moving some place else. Fields credited coach Glenn.
I think, No. 1, [reason is] coach [Aaron] Glenn. I’ve played against him early in my career [and] 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.
Justin Fields said
Going up against each other helped Fields decide
Fields spent the first three years of his NFL career with the Chicago Bears after they took him in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Around the same time, the Detroit Lions appointed Glenn as their defensive coordinator under head coach Dan Campbell.
From 2021 to 2023, the Bears and the Lions played each other five times. Fields started on every occasion, winning 3 and losing 3 while boasting a record of 84.1 with 843 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions (Statmuse).
Our relationship playing against each other means a lot because [of] Detroit. They have had a lot of success the past couple of years. So for [Aaron Glenn] to want me here is a definite honor, and I am going to put it all on the line for him and do all I can to help this team be successful.
Justin Fields said
Justin Fields on why he chose the Jets in free agency: “I think, No. 1, coach Glenn. 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…
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) March 20, 2025
Glenn isn’t the only reason. Establishing a base of operations in the Big Apple is a massive deal for any football player. To top it off, the fans are very passionate about the Jets.
Just the opportunity, the fans [and] the city. When you win here, there’s no better place to win, those reasons are ultimately why I ended up here.
Justin Fields added
What can the Jets fans expect from their new quarterback?
If it were possible, the Jets would want to erase the 2024 season even though future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers was their quarterback and threw 28 touchdowns to just 11 picks. The year was filled with unwanted drama from Rodgers, locker-room politics, and just five wins and 12 losses.
There’s a sudden enthusiasm and expectation among the Jets fans with Fields set to replace Rodgers in the new campaign. So, what can the fans expect from the former five-star recruit?
I know I definitely have some untapped potential. I’m hoping to get there this year… Hoping to put it on display for everybody to see.
Justin Fields said
Right after penning a two-year, $40 million deal contract with the Jets, some of his former OSU buddies rang him as the welcoming entourage.
Ruck [tight end Jeremy Ruckert] and Garrett [Wilson] texted me, too, so I’m excited to be back with some of my Buckeyes, for sure.
Justin Fields said
Garrett Wilson, in a separate interview, revealed that he was thrilled to hear his former Buckeyes quarterback joining as the possible starter for the Jets. However, the issue is that he may not get the chance to play unless the brass gives him the ideal contract. With WR2 Tee Higgins getting paid $28.5 million a year, Wilson would at least want more because he undeniably is the No.1 receiver at the Jets. If not, then the Jets have to trade him.
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