The New York Jets might be facing a major setback before the 2025 season even kicks off. Quarterback Justin Fields, acquired in the offseason to be the team’s potential long-term answer at the position, was carted off the field during Wednesday’s training camp session.
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Fields had to be helped off after suffering a non-contact injury.
While initial concern ran high, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn later told reporters the injury was to Fields’ toe, calling it “something they’ll monitor over the next few days,” per Schefter.
Though the severity is not yet clear, any potential absence from Fields could drastically alter the Jets’ quarterback situation, one that was already under scrutiny following the team’s decision to move on from Aaron Rodgers and lean into a new era under Fields.
What happens if Justin Fields misses time?
If Fields is unavailable, the Jets currently don’t have a proven Plan B. Backup Tyrod Taylor has starting experience but hasn’t led a team full-time since 2017. There is Adrian Martinez, but he is still developing. That leaves the Jets in a tricky spot if Fields’ injury lingers into the regular season.
One possible emergency option is buried on the Atlanta Falcons’ depth chart.
League insiders have speculated for weeks that Kirk Cousins may be made available via trade, especially after the Falcons selected Michael Penix Jr. in the first round of the draft last year and have been grooming him as the likely week one starter. Cousins, who signed with Atlanta, now finds himself in a precarious position with limited guaranteed money beyond 2025 and a clear heir apparent behind him.
If Fields is out for an extended period, someone inform the Falcons that the Jets could come calling. A veteran like Cousins would give New York a stable bridge while allowing them to reevaluate Fields’ long-term health and development timeline.
The only obstacle would be the Falcons’ asking price and whether the Jets are willing to make a move that could signal less confidence in Fields' long-term outlook.
For now, the team holds its breath and hopes the injury is minor.
But if not, expect trade phones across the league to start ringing.