If you ask Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker, the New York Jets hit a home run by signing Justin Fields in free agency.
Speaking with Kyle Odegard of Casino Beats, Brisker praised his former Chicago teammate for his overall talent and leadership, which are two crucial traits teams often seek in franchise quarterbacks. He also added that New York is a “perfect” fit for Fields.
“He’s gonna be a great player,” said Brisker. “That’s Houdini, man. He’s gonna make things happen. He’s in a great spot. Get him a couple (of) weapons, an O-line—I feel like he’s gonna be great. I always thought he was great, and he’s an amazing quarterback off the field, which is important. He talks to everyone. He’s a great guy. I feel like the Jets was a perfect fit for him.”
Fields was the Jets’ first outside free-agent signing this offseason, signing with Gang Green on a two-year contract worth up to $40 million with $30 million guaranteed.
The former Ohio State Buckeye was selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft by the Bears, where he spent his first three NFL seasons.
The quarterback spent three seasons in Chicago, where he was primarily the team’s starter. Over that stretch, he went 10-28, completing 60.3% of his passes for 6,674 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions. He also showcased his mobility, rushing for 2,220 yards and 14 touchdowns on 356 attempts.
While Fields struggled to find consistent success in Chicago, several outside factors, including subpar offensive line play and coaching, contributed to his poor performance.
At 26 years old, Fields remains unproven at the NFL level. Despite that, Brisker believes the quarterback will thrive with the Jets, the third NFL team Fields has been with throughout his career.
