The New York Jets made headlines this offseason by committing $40 million to former first-round quarterback Justin Fields — a move they hoped would stabilize the position after years of uncertainty. But while the Jets avoided taking a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, speculation is already heating up about what they might do in 2026 if Fields doesn’t take full control of the job.
It’s an intriguing storyline: A team shelling out serious money for a QB, only to be linked to a potential early-round replacement just a year later. But if Fields struggles or if the Jets find themselves near the top of the draft board again, analysts believe New York may not hesitate to make a change. And one rising prospect is already drawing early attention from the scouting community.
NFL Draft Watch: Could New York Jets Eye a High-Upside QB if Justin Fields’ Season Goes South?
In PFSN’s latest NFL Mock Draft, draft analyst Brentley Weissman examined the Jets’ potential 2026 draft direction. In his latest projection, Weissman had the Jets using a premium pick — No. 2 overall — on South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback who accounted for 28 total touchdowns in 2024, considered one of the most intriguing talents in next year’s class.
“If the New York Jets are picking this high in the draft, it likely means that the Justin Fields experience was a failure,” Weissman said. “In this case, the Jets take the quarterback with perhaps the highest upside in the 2026 class, South Carolina’s QB LaNorris Sellers. Sellers has outstanding playmaking ability as he possesses exceptional quickness, play strength, and instincts. His ability to create big plays in and out of structure will surely intrigue NFL decision-makers.”
The buzz around Sellers isn’t just hype. Scouts and analysts have praised his tools, and several teams could view him as a franchise-caliber talent. If Fields falters early in his Jets tenure, New York may find itself in a familiar spot — searching for the next answer at quarterback, even after a major financial commitment.
Fields Betting on Himself After Pittsburgh Steelers Snub
The Jets are hoping it doesn’t come to that. Fields signed with New York after a brief but telling stint in Pittsburgh, where he posted a 4-2 record while filling in for an injured Russell Wilson. Despite his success, Fields was benched when Wilson returned — a move that didn’t sit well with the former Chicago Bears first-round draft pick.
Now, Fields is entering a crucial stretch in his career. The $40 million contract he signed with the Jets includes $30 million guaranteed, along with incentives tied to starts and postseason play. He has a real opportunity to secure the job long-term, but the margin for error is thin.
To his credit, Fields responded to the Pittsburgh setback with focus and resilience. Coaches praised his preparation and attitude, and the Jets believe that maturity — combined with his athletic upside — gives him a chance to thrive in New York.
If the 2025 season goes sideways, the front office won’t hesitate to pivot. Fields is getting a fresh start, but the clock is ticking.