In Florham Park, New Jersey, the New York Jets have implemented significant changes, including a new coaching staff, a new quarterback, and a renewed philosophy regarding playing time in the preseason. Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed that quarterback Justin Fields and the starters will participate in the first preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Glenn did not specify how much time the starters will play, but their participation marks a change from the management of the previous coach Robert Saleh. In the previous preseason, Aaron Rodgers, Fields’ predecessor, didn’t get any playing time, just like most starters. In 2023, Rodgers only participated in nine plays in the last preseason game. The last time the Jets’ starting quarterback played in the first preseason game was in 2022, resulting in a knee injury for Zach Wilson, who had to undergo surgery and missed the first three regular season games. Glenn is willing to take the risk of injury, seeking to establish a positive dynamic for the season as a coach in his first year. When asked about his decision to play Fields, Glenn replied: “I want our players to play. That’s the reason.” Fields could benefit from this practice, especially after showing inconsistencies in training. The offense in general, which is learning a new system under the direction of coordinator Tanner Engstrand, could also take advantage of this opportunity. After three difficult practices, Fields performed well on Thursday, completing 8 of 14 passes in team drills, including a touchdown pass to wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Although he had no interceptions, one pass was deflected by tight end Jeremy Ruckert. Fields expressed his desire to play in the preseason this week.Let’s play.
Aaron Glenn
Fields hasn’t played much football in the last 11 months, starting the first six games of last season for the Pittsburgh Steelers before being replaced by Russell Wilson. Glenn praised Fields’ maturity.I think we need to see the field in every game. I think it’ll be good for our team. It’ll be good for Tanner with the game stuff. It’ll be good for me and the guys on offense. I know some guys sit out the whole preseason, but I don’t think that’s the case for us. Because of the new team, the new offense and stuff like that.
Justin Fields
At the beginning of camp, Fields missed one practice and was limited in two others due to a dislocated right big toe. Although there is still some swelling, according to him, it no longer bothers him.He’s a very mature person. He understands the ups and downs of this game. There’s a lot of outside noise trying to bring him down, and he’s very mature. He doesn’t let that affect him. He’s just going to do his job.
Aaron Glenn
