Jets’ Fast Start Exposes Familiar Flaws: Is Justin Fields Enough to Keep This Team Alive? (Copy)
Justin Fields’ status is now officially in question. Following a hit during the Jets’ Week 2 loss to the Bills, Fields is in the NFL’s concussion protocol, which means we don’t yet know when he’ll return.
That’s left the team preparing for the possibility that backup QB Tyrod Taylor will take over for their upcoming game. Head coach Aaron Glenn confirmed the Jets are drawing up plans with Taylor as starter if Fields isn’t cleared.
What We Know So Far
Fields took a hard hit from Joey Bosa late in the fourth quarter vs. Buffalo. His head struck the turf. Shortly afterward, he fumbled, and then was officially ruled into concussion protocol.
He finished the game 3 for 11 passing, for 27 yards, plus 49 rushing yards and five carries.
When Fields went out, Taylor came in. In limited duty, Taylor went 7 of 11 for 56 yards and threw a touchdown. He also rushed for 21 yards in that stint.
Why It Matters
Fields is clearly the more dynamic option—the kind of QB who can change a play with his legs, make big throws under pressure, stretch the field. But concussions are tricky. The league protocol has multiple steps: symptom control, light aerobic exercise, non‑contact football drills, then full clearance. It’s not always predictable how long each step will take.
Taylor, meanwhile, brings stability. Not as flashy, but seasoned, capable of running a game, and less likely to force risky plays. If the Jets’ coaching staff has been wise, their game plan with Taylor under center will emphasize safer throws, shorter drops, more run support ahead of risky pass plays—minimizing turnover chances while Fields heals.
The Week Ahead
With a Week 3 matchup vs. the Buccaneers looming, this is the kind of situation where timing is everything. Even if Fields feels better, not getting enough practice reps could mean they lean on Taylor or limit Fields’ role initially.
The Jets can’t afford ragged execution right now—defensive issues, offensive consistency, all of it matters. If Taylor starts, this is a test: can he keep the ship afloat while their “star” QB recovers?