Justin Fields Contract’s Impact on Jets’ 2026 QB Trade Plans

The New York Jets are in the process of reevaluating their quarterback position, particularly in light of Justin Fields’ contract and performance this past season. Fields, who signed a two-year, $40 million contract last March, is largely expected to depart from the team this offseason.

Justin Fields’ Contract Details

• Signed a two-year contract worth $40 million.
• Included $30 million in guaranteed money.
• Due to make $20 million next season, with $10 million guaranteed.

Performance Overview

This season, Fields played in nine games for the Jets. He completed 62.7% of his passes, amassing 1,259 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception. Additionally, he contributed 383 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. Unfortunately, Fields faced challenges on the field, leading to his eventual demotion.

Challenges Faced by Fields

Fields was benched multiple times throughout the season. His struggles began during an October game against the Denver Broncos, where he completed only 9 of 17 passes for a mere 45 yards, resulting in a 13-11 loss in London on October 12. Although he started the following week against the Carolina Panthers, he again performed poorly, completing just 6 of 12 passes for 46 yards before being replaced by Tyrod Taylor.

After Fields’ performance against the Panthers, he was briefly restored as the starting quarterback when Taylor sustained a knee injury. However, after two unsatisfactory outings against the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots, he was benched again. He was later placed on injured reserve for the final games of the season due to a knee injury.

Future Implications for the Jets

The Jets are facing a tough decision regarding Fields’ fate. Releasing him seems the most probable outcome unless a trade opportunity arises where the Jets cover a large portion of his remaining guaranteed money. In any case, Fields would result in a significant dead cap hit of $22 million, which could be distributed over two years.

Possible Trade Outcomes

Finding a trading partner for Fields may prove challenging due to the financial implications associated with his contract. Despite some flashes of potential, particularly in a promising Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Jets have transitioned to rookie Brady Cook as their current starting quarterback for the season’s conclusion.

The Jets are likely weighing their options carefully as they navigate their quarterback strategy for the future, keeping Justin Fields’ contract’s impact on their 2026 QB trade plans in mind.