Jets Establish Fields as Starter Without Competition
After signing Justin Fields in free agency, the New York Jets immediately designated the former first-round pick of the Chicago Bears as their starting quarterback. There was no suggestion of a quarterback competition involving veteran Tyrod Taylor.
Taylor Maintains Preparedness and Professional Mindset
Speaking at the Gridiron Gala earlier this week, Taylor expressed ease with his current role. The experienced quarterback emphasized his continued readiness to step in if needed behind Fields.
“Whether I did or whether I didn’t, my mindset and the way I condition myself to get ready for a season since my rookie year has been [to] approach each and every day as if you’re the starter,” Taylor told ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “As a quarterback, you’re an opportunity away, so you want to be well prepared for that opportunity.”
Taylor joined the Jets last offseason on a two-year deal following a 2023 campaign in which the team cycled through various backup quarterbacks. Although he appeared in two games behind Aaron Rodgers, Taylor did not start any. The veteran noted that he has a good relationship with Fields and is fully willing to assist the younger signal-caller however possible.
“We’ve been good friends throughout his time in the league as well,” Taylor said. “So I’m here to support and help the team win in any form or fashion, whether it’s me on the field or whether it’s me being able to shed some light and experience.”
“And coach guys through, whether it’s in the quarterback room or any other position. Any knowledge or experience that I could offer to the younger guys that helps the team win, at the end of the day, is what I’m here to do. I’m looking forward to doing that.”
Experience and Stability in the Quarterback Room
Set to turn 36 in August, Taylor has built a respectable NFL career since being drafted in the sixth round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2011. Over 14 seasons he has made 58 starts, including five games in 2023 as a member of the New York Giants.
Known for his ability to lead an offense without disrupting team dynamics, Taylor remains a valuable veteran presence in the locker room.
During Fields’ three-year tenure as a starter in Chicago, he did not complete a season without missing time due to injury. As a result, even though Fields is slated to begin the 2025 season as the starter, there’s a realistic possibility that Taylor could see playing time at some point during the year.
