Justin Fields remains listed on the New York Jets roster following a difficult 2025 season, but his place in the team’s future is uncertain as the offseason approaches. Jets General Manager Darren Mougey provided an update on Fields, emphasizing that while the quarterback is under contract, the team is considering all options at the position, including trades and free agency.
“Yeah, Justin’s on the roster,” Mougey confirmed.
“And just like every other position, we’re going to evaluate the quarterback position through every landscape, whether that’s trade, on the street, free agency, to see what we can add to the team. But Justin’s under contract. Glad he’s under contract. We have no, you know, trigger date with Justin’s contract, so he’s part of the Jets.”
— Darren Mougey, Jets General Manager
Jets insider Rich Cimini interpreted Mougey’s remarks as a possible “Kiss of Death statement” regarding Fields’ future on the team, casting doubt on the quarterback’s long-term role in New York.
Review of Justin Fields’ Performance During the 2025 Season
Fields started nine games throughout the 2025 season, compiling a record of two wins and seven losses as the Jets concluded with just three victories in 17 games overall. After beginning the year with a 1-8 start, Fields was replaced by veteran Tyrod Taylor. Although he later returned for two additional starts, Fields was ultimately placed on injured reserve on December 23 due to knee soreness.
In his inaugural season with the Jets, Fields threw for 1,259 yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception, while also contributing four rushing touchdowns. Despite moments of promise, his inconsistency and injuries limited his overall impact on the team’s performance.
Contract Status and Potential Decisions Ahead of 2026
Fields inked a two-year contract worth $40 million with the Jets in March 2025, securing his place with the franchise through the 2026 season. However, given the team’s evaluation strategy and Fields’ challenging season, there is speculation that the Jets might explore parting ways with him before the next campaign begins.
The Jets’ openness to examine all quarterback options signals a proactive stance toward improving the roster, especially as they prepare for significant roster decisions in the offseason. How this will affect Fields remains to be seen, but the team’s cautious approach reflects the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his role.
What This Means for the Jets Moving Forward
The Jets are at a crossroads with their quarterback situation, balancing Fields’ contract status against the desire to strengthen the roster ahead of future seasons. Mougey’s remarks highlight a willingness to explore every avenue, indicating that the franchise is neither fully committed nor ready to release the quarterback without consideration of alternatives.
As the offseason develops, the Jets’ decisions on Fields will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, given how critical the quarterback position is to the team’s prospects. The evaluation process could also influence trade market dynamics and free agency activity surrounding quarterbacks league-wide.
A recap of Mougey/Glenn today at the combine:
* Breece Hall isn't going anywhere. Whether it's a tag or a new contract, the plan is to keep him.
* Justin Fields "is on the roster" — usually a kiss-of-death statement. Mougey says he, Glenn, Reich and Musgrave discuss the QB…
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) February 24, 2026
