This isn't good. During the second training camp practice for the New York Jets, quarterback Justin Fields went down with a lower leg injury and hobbled off the field. NFL reporter Conner Hughes broke the news on X on Thursday morning, and ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback was carted off the field.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport later reported that Fields is dealing with a toe injury after a player apparently stepped on his foot. There has been no word on the severity of the injury, and Fields is scheduled to undergo an MRI to gather more information, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Alongside first-time defensive-minded head coach Aaron Glenn, New York appeared poised to lean heavily on the rushing attack and defense for success, and Fields was a monumental part of that game plan. This toe injury could throw a curveball in those plans (at least early on).
If the injury proves to be serious, this would be crushing news that will undoubtedly have the Jets scrambling to address their quarterback depth. Behind Fields on the depth chart are 35-year-old Tyrod Taylor, along with two untested QBs in Adrian Martinez and Brady Cook. None of which would serve as respectable starting options in 2025.
Justin Fields' leg injury could impact the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1
As Pittsburgh Steelers fans, we can feel for Justin Fields. The duel-threat quarterback was never given a fair shot in Pittsburgh, and many fans were bumbed when he signed with the New York Jets in free agency this past offseason. While Fields could heal up soon, if this injury lingers, it could play a factor in the season-opener.
Fields' injury doesn't only affect the Jets; it has an impact on every team on New York's schedule this year. The Steelers were scheduled to play the Jets in Week 1. This was supposed to be an Aaron Rodgers vs. Justin Fields showdown—quarterbacks who essentially swapped jerseys in 2025. And it still might be.
But if this injury is more severe than anticipated, the Jets could soon scramble to find help. Kirk Cousins is an option who could be available for trade, but he may not fit with the initial plans on offense.
Jets fans and Steelers fans alike held their breath when we heard this news, and we can feel for the veteran quarterback and the Jets' fan base. Let's hope Fields can get back on the field soon.