The future of Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields remains in the balance with plenty of NFL rumors about where the former Ohio State Buckeyes star could land. Fields is headed to NFL free agency and could soon be on his third team in as many years if the quarterback is unable to reach a new deal with the Steelers.
Despite having a stellar college football career at Ohio State, Fields is still trying to solidify himself as a starting NFL quarterback. The Chicago Bears selected Fields with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft.
Ultimately, the Bears traded Fields to the Steelers during the 2024 NFL offseason, paving the way for Caleb Williams to be the team’s franchise quarterback.
Fields started six games for Pittsburgh in 2024, but the Steelers turned to Wilson as the team’s starting quarterback to close the season. Yet, Fields could have more options than simply re-signing with the Steelers in the coming weeks.
Pro Football Sports Network’s Ben Rolfe offered “10 Bold NFL Offseason Predictions” and projects the New York Jets will sign Fields.
“The veteran free agent quarterback market isn’t particularly inspiring, with Sam Darnold and Russell Wilson headlining the field,” Rolfe wrote on Jan. 30. “Yet, Fields looms as a more intriguing upside candidate, albeit one without a sustained track record of high performance.
“Nonetheless, Fields was effective as a starter for the Steelers in 2024 before being benched for Wilson after six games,” Rolfe continued.
“… With the Jets likely moving on from Rodgers after the 41-year-old finished 21st in PFN’s QB+ rankings (72.1 grade), Fields could be a high-upside option for a roster that is otherwise veteran-laden and could be competitive in 2025.”
The Jets have already announced the team’s decision to move on from Aaron Rodgers for 2025. The 10-time Pro Bowler still technically has one season remaining on a three-year, $112.5 million contract.
If Rodgers returns for another NFL season, it will be with another franchise. Buckeyes fans will be watching to see if Fields can recapture his days as a standout signal-caller in Columbus, Ohio, potentially finding a new home this offseason.
The Jets make a lot of sense for Fields with both parties needing a bit of a spark heading into the 2025 season.