New York, NY – The New York Jets have secured their latest starting quarterback, reaching an agreement on a two-year, $40 million deal with 2021 first-rounder Justin Fields. This contract places Fields at the bottom of the salary scale for veteran starting quarterbacks, with an average annual value of $20 million. This figure is notably lower than what was considered top of the market not too long ago, sparking questions about how much less the Steelers had offered Fields.
Sources familiar with the deal disclosed that Fields will receive a signing bonus of $15 million, a fully-guaranteed 2025 base salary of $5 million, and a 2026 base salary of $20 million. Of this amount, $10 million from the 2026 salary is fully guaranteed at signing. Consequently, if the Jets opt not to retain him for both years, they will owe Fields $10 million in 2026, likely subject to offset provisions.
The focus now shifts to whether Fields will hold onto the starting quarterback position and how the Jets will manage his development over the next few seasons. Jets fans, known for their impatience, are eager to see if Fields can fulfill his potential as a franchise quarterback.
A standout runner, Fields still has areas to improve upon as a passer. However, like all quarterbacks, there comes a point where growth plateaus. The task ahead for the Jets will be to push Fields towards reaching his full potential and elevating his performance to new heights.
With the signing of Fields, the Jets are looking to solidify their quarterback position and usher in a new era of success. The pressure is on Fields to prove himself and justify the team’s investment in him. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Justin Fields as he takes on the challenge of leading the New York Jets to victory.