Is 2025 Justin Fields’ final chance to prove he can start in the NFL?
According to former New York Jets right tackle and ESPN analyst Damien Woody, the answer is yes.
Speaking on ESPN’s “Get Up,” the Pro Bowl offensive lineman revealed he believes the upcoming season will mark Fields’ last opportunity to establish himself as an NFL starter.
“I think so,” said the Jets’ former three-year starting right tackle when asked if 2025 is Fields’ last shot as a starter. “You look at what happened in Chicago, and then what happened in Pittsburgh, I think the Jets will be conscious about tailor making this offense around him. If it doesn’t happen this year, I don’t see it happening.”
After signing a two-year, $40 million deal with $30 million guaranteed in free agency, Fields joins the Jets as his third NFL team since being selected 11th overall by the Chicago Bears in 2021.
Fields opened last season as the Steelers’ starting quarterback, guiding the team to a 4-2 record before being benched after six games. During that stretch, the 26-year-old completed 66.3% of his passes for 1,106 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception while also rushing for 231 yards and five scores on 55 attempts.
After losing the starting job, Fields saw minimal playing time, logging just 12 offensive snaps the rest of the season. He attempted one pass and added 58 rushing yards on seven carries in limited duty.
Now entering his fifth NFL season, Fields has flashed the athleticism and big-play ability that once made him a highly touted prospect. However, to reach his high ceiling as a top-tier NFL quarterback, he must deliver those moments with far greater consistency.
Unlike his previous stops in Chicago and Pittsburgh, the Jets appear committed to building around Fields and giving him a fair opportunity to prove his value.
General manager Darren Mougey named the 26-year-old the team’s starting quarterback at the owners’ meetings, signaling a fresh opportunity and autonomy of the offense.
