The New York Jets completed a trade on Tuesday, sending a sixth-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for quarterback Geno Smith and a seventh-round pick. Smith, who last played for the Jets nine years ago, is set to be the team’s new starting quarterback. This move follows the Jets’ decision to part ways with Justin Fields after just one season.
Background on Justin Fields’ Time with the Jets
When the Jets selected Justin Fields, formerly of the Chicago Bears, they hoped to secure a long-term solution at quarterback. However, Fields’ single season in New York was fraught with challenges. He started only nine games, winning just two, during a dismal 3-14 campaign. Fields completed 128 of 204 passing attempts for 1,259 yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception. The team made it clear by the end of the season that they would consider other options at the position.
Owner’s Criticism and Fields’ Struggles
Jets owner Woody Johnson publicly criticized Fields after an 0-7 start to the season, remarking,
“if we can just complete a pass, it would look good,”
and expressing that “something is not just jiving” with the quarterback’s performance. Fields was benched during a game but returned to start the following week, where he led the Jets to a close 39-38 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite moments of support from his sister and stepmother during these tough times, Fields’ emotional struggles were evident.
Fields’ Career Moves After Chicago
Justin Fields entered the NFL as the 11th overall pick in the 2021 draft by the Chicago Bears. His second season featured a notable performance, rushing for 1,143 yards—the second-highest total ever recorded by a quarterback. Chicago’s general manager, Ryan Poles, had initially planned to retain Fields for a third season and even traded the 2023 No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers. However, when the Panthers ended up with the top draft pick, Poles traded Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers to select Caleb Williams instead. In 2024, Fields started six games for the Steelers before losing the starting job to Russell Wilson.
Implications of the Jets’ New Quarterback Decision
The Jets are expected to release or trade Justin Fields, who is under contract for one more year with $20 million remaining, half of which is guaranteed. Bringing in Geno Smith signals a shift in strategy by the Jets’ front office as they seek stability at quarterback. Smith’s familiarity with the team could allow for a smoother transition during a period of uncertainty. Moving forward, the Jets will aim to build around their new starter while addressing the issues that hampered last season’s performance.
