Justin Fields has a shot at a starting quarterback job again after signing with the New York Jets. Fields’ mobility has the potential to be a huge asset in the NFL, but the player’s passing needs to improve if he’s to stay on the field long enough to use.
But in a recent episode of “Get Up” on ESPN, two-time Super Bowl champion Damien Woody sent a warning to the player. Asked if 2025 was Fields’ last opportunity, Woody suggested that the quarterback wouldn’t get another chance if he fails with the New York Jets.
Justin Fields Gets an Opportunity With the Jets
After being taken 11th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields spent three seasons with the Chicago Bears, winning just 10 of his 38 starts in the Windy City. Fields was well-liked in Chicago, but the opportunity to draft Caleb Williams in 2024 led to the team trading him to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Fields started the first six games of the 2024 season, winning four, while Russell Wilson was sidelined with an injury. Despite the winning record, Fields was replaced by Wilson and rarely saw the field again after.
Now, with the Jets, Fields has a chance to kickstart his career with a team that needs to build a team around an exciting group of young players. After skipping some steps to compete for Super Bowls with Aaron Rodgers, the team can take a step back and be patient with Fields as it builds a foundation.
Damien Woody Suggests the Jets May Be Fields’ Last Chance
While the opportunity in New Jersey is an exciting one for Fields, the former top pick will be well aware that he needs to improve some areas of his game. Quarterbacks in their mid-20s don’t usually play for three different teams in consecutive years if they’re impressing on the field. Fields represents a project for the Jets, while the Jets represent a lifeline for him.
Speaking on “Get UP” on ESPN, Woody, a former New York Jet, believes that the 2025 season represents Fields’ last chance to prove himself. Asked about Fields’ career outlook if things went wrong in 2025, Woody’s response was less than hopeful.
“You look at what happened in Chicago, look at what happened in Pittsburgh. I think the Jets are gonna be conscientious about tailor-making this offense around him. If it doesn’t happen this year, I don’t see it happening.”
.@damienwoody believes this is Justin Fields' last shot at being an NFL starter 😯 pic.twitter.com/JzEZMTwc76
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 10, 2025
Fields’ ability to burn defenses with his legs, along with his three years of experience as a starter, will give him opportunities in the future. But if he shows no signs of improvement next season, those opportunities will likely be in a backup role. Geno Smith’s career arc is evidence that quarterbacks can find success later in their careers, but Fields will be hoping to avoid that wait.