Why Did Justin Fields Leave the Steelers for the Jets? Here’s What He Said
Justin Fields’ move from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the New York Jets wasn’t just about the money—though a two-year, $40 million deal with $30 million guaranteed certainly helped. According to Fields himself, it was also about a fresh start and the opportunity to play for head coach Aaron Glenn.
In a newly released team documentary, Fields opened up about why the Jets felt like the right fit to revitalize his career.
“I’m definitely super excited to just be here,” Fields said. “Meeting all the new coaches and everybody around the building. Really just excited for a fresh start. We’re ready to get to work. So, super excited. I chose the Jets because No. 1, AG. The kind of coach he is, how passionate he is about the game, and really just what he brings to the table. Changing the culture around here and wanting to win games and wanting to be great. He knows what it takes to build a team up from the ground up and really get them going. I think that’s why AG is the right guy for the job.”
Fields impressed during his brief 2024 stint in Pittsburgh, going 4-2 as a starter with 10 touchdowns and just one turnover—an encouraging sign for a quarterback who struggled with consistency during his time in Chicago.
The Steelers, meanwhile, shifted direction following Fields’ departure. They brought in veteran Aaron Rodgers as a temporary solution while reportedly preparing to trade up in the 2026 NFL Draft in search of a long-term answer at quarterback.
Fields won’t have to wait long for a reunion with his former team—the Jets host the Steelers in a high-stakes Week 1 matchup in East Rutherford.
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