Introduction

The New York Jets continue to navigate a quarterback carousel, even after investing $40 million in former Chicago Bears first-round pick Justin Fields this offseason. While the team remains optimistic about Fields' potential, analysts speculate about their next move in the 2026 NFL Draft if the 25-year-old fails to stabilize the position.

The Justin Fields Experiment

Fields signed a two-year deal with $30 million guaranteed, arriving in New York with a reputation for athleticism but inconsistent accuracy. In 2024, he posted a 4-2 record with the Pittsburgh Steelers, accumulating 1,106 passing yards, five touchdowns, and one interception, while adding 289 rushing yards and five scores. His mobility shone in moments like a 312-yard, one-touchdown performance against the Colts. However, his benching when Russell Wilson returned from injury raised questions about his long-term viability as a franchise quarterback.

Head coach Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand are betting on Fields' ability to extend plays and create mismatches with his legs. Yet the pressure is immense: he must lead an offense ranked 24th in scoring in 2024, supported by weapons like Garrett Wilson (1,104 receiving yards in 2024) and Breece Hall (876 rushing yards).

The 2026 NFL Draft Alternative

If Fields struggles, the Jets could target top-tier quarterbacks like Clemson’s Cade Klubnik and South Carolina’s Lanorris Sellers. Klubnik, a junior, broke out in 2024 with 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and six interceptions, plus 463 rushing yards and seven scores. His 148.2 passer rating and Clutch Performances (e.g., a 288-yard, two-TD game against Pittsburgh) draw Deshaun Watson comparisons. Sellers, a dual-threat QB, accounted for 28 total touchdowns (17 passing, 11 rushing) in 2024, showcasing elite escapability and arm strength.

Both prospects could be available if the Jets secure a top-five pick—a scenario likely if Fields underperforms or injuries disrupt the 2025 Season.

The Jets’ Rebuilding Context

New York’s Quarterback Struggles extend beyond Fields. After years of inStability—from Sam Darnold to Zach Wilson to Aaron Rodgers—the franchise urgently seeks a long-term solution. A 5-12 record in 2024 and the firing of coach Robert Saleh and GM Joe Douglas underscore this urgency. New leadership under GM Joe Schoen and coach Aaron Glenn emphasizes accountability and culture change.

A strong 2025 season from Fields could solidify his role, but repeated struggles would push the Jets toward a high-risk, high-reward draft gamble.

Conclusion

The Jets’ 2026 draft strategy hinges on Justin Fields’ 2025 performance. If he fulfills his potential, New York may finally find its quarterback of the future. If not, the team could pivot to college stars like Klubnik or Sellers, both offering tantalizing upside. For now, Fields has a golden opportunity to rewrite his narrative—but the clock is ticking.