Justin Fields’ conservative approach in the preseason is raising eyebrows, but the New York Jets coaching staff isn’t sounding any alarms—at least, not publicly.
According to Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk, Fields has yet to attempt a pass traveling more than 10 yards in the air through the Jets’ first two preseason games. The lack of downfield throws has sparked concern among fans and analysts about the potential limitations of New York’s passing game with Fields under center.
Despite the scrutiny, Fields told reporters on Tuesday that he’s content with playing it safe: “I’m fine with taking eight-yard completions every play.”
On Wednesday, offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand backed his quarterback, emphasizing that Fields is simply responding to what opposing defenses are giving him.
“He’s going to play the play the way the defense allows,” Engstrand said, via Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic. “If there’s a shot downfield, he’ll take it. If not, he’ll check it down and move on. We’re totally fine with that approach.”
Fields’ preseason numbers haven’t helped his case. In Saturday’s 31-12 loss to the New York Giants, he completed just 1 of 5 passes for 4 yards. Across two preseason games, he’s gone 4-of-9 for 46 yards, per Fox Sports.
Still, new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn downplayed the criticism on Tuesday, saying he’s ignoring the “outside noise” regarding the offense’s performance.
Scott Turner, the team’s passing game coordinator, also defended Fields on Wednesday. He likened the quarterback’s approach to that of Josh Allen, who limited turnovers and won MVP last season by focusing on smart decisions rather than highlight-reel throws.
“Justin’s doing a nice job knowing when to check it down and when to take a shot,” Turner explained. “You’ve seen great quarterbacks mature that way. It’s about making the right play, not the biggest one.”
Looking at last season, ESPN stats show Fields averaged 6.9 yards per attempt in his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a figure that placed him behind 22 other qualified quarterbacks, per Pro Football Reference.
Even though the Jets owe Fields $10 million guaranteed in 2026, Dan Graziano of ESPN reported the team won’t hesitate to seek a new quarterback next offseason if Fields fails to make a significant leap as a passer.
For now, it’s still early in Fields’ tenure with New York — but so far, there’s little evidence that a breakthrough is on the horizon.
About the Author
