After the disastrous two-year Aaron Rodgers era, the New York Jets have enlisted former first-round pick Justin Fields as their new field general.
But according to NFL Films producer and ESPN analyst Greg Cosell, Fields doesn’t quite have the intangible tools of an elite QB ready to lead the Jets back to the playoffs — yet.
Justin Fields Doesn’t See the Game the Right Way
Cosell was on the June 12 edition of the “Ross Tucker Podcast by DraftKings” when he delivered his verdict on Fields.
“I think Fields, to me, is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks, because the physical traits are so high-level, but I think for whatever reason, up to this point, he just doesn’t see [the game] the way you want a quarterback to see it,” he said.
“But, I think coaches always feel they can get a quarterback to do that. I mean, you’re dealing with a guy that’s 6’3″, 230 [pounds]. Big arm, powerful runner, gives you the quarterback run game, which has become increasingly important in this league.”
“Fields to me is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks because the physical traits are so high level.
“He just doesn’t see it the way you want a quarterback to see it.”@GregCosell gives his thoughts on the Jets’ starting QB: pic.twitter.com/kNF4t1qA7v
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) June 12, 2025
Cosell went on to assert that the Jets coaches must believe they can help Fields turn a corner and combine his physical gifts with a newfound feel for the game. Plus, with the talent surrounding multiple areas of the roster, Fields might not have to be a star. But if they can make him more consistent and get the most out of his multiple tools, the ceiling is very high for both Fields and the Jets.
This season, Fields steps into a fairly positive situation, even though the Jets haven’t seen much success over the past couple of years. New York finished just 5-12 and 15th and 19th in PFSN’s Defense+ and Offense+ metrics, respectively. In other words, they’re laden with talent on both sides of the football.
Reunited with former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson, joined by Breece Hall in the backfield and with elite young defenders like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams stopping opposing offenses, Fields is set up for some level of success right out of the gate.
And despite their new QB1 mostly riding the Pittsburgh Steelers’ pine in favor of Russell Wilson last season, the Jets placed a significant amount of capital in Fields, handing him $30 million guaranteed as part of his two-year, $40 million deal.
As for Fields, the pressure is on. At age 26 and on his third team, this stint with the Jets could be his last opportunity to prove he can be a bona fide starter in the NFL.
