Quarterback Dilemma for Jets Continues
Starting Justin Fields, who has lost the trust of at least the team’s owner, hasn’t proven effective, and Tyrod Taylor has also failed to deliver results as a starter or relief.
In Week 8, the winless Jets are opting for a new strategy: keeping their starting quarterback a secret. This move aims to challenge the Bengals’ preparations by leaving them in suspense.
Head Coach Aaron Glenn mentioned, “I wouldn’t want to give [the Bengals] a competitive advantage when I have the opportunity,” adding that a quarterback decision will be made soon.
As practice unfolded on Wednesday, details remained vague. Fields and Taylor shared equal practice reps, with Fields noting he hadn’t been briefed on the weekend’s plans.
Glenn affirmed he has decided on a quarterback and emphasized that the team owner’s critique of Fields during a public statement holds no weight in his decisions. “It’s his opinion, and he has every right to it,” Glenn said, redirecting focus to team-wide improvements while acknowledging the urgency for a turnaround.
The Jets’ struggles at the quarterback position are evident, as Fields has been underwhelming, contributing to a squad that hasn’t scored a touchdown in two consecutive games. Currently, they sit last in the NFL for passing yards.
Despite the pressures, Glenn maintains confidence in both Fields and Taylor, as well as rookie Brady Cook. The Jets are keen on finding a solution in hopes of securing a win against the 3-4 Bengals, a manageable opponent given their current struggles.
Focusing on improvement across all areas, Glenn insists discussions should center on winning. “We’re all on the same page and know what needs to be done,” he stated, underscoring the commitment to focus on the upcoming challenge.