Justin Fields could be replaced by former Patriots first-round draft pick: Jets insider

Mac Jones has entered the conversation as a potential short-term solution for the New York Jets’ quarterback turmoil following Monday’s benching of Justin Fields. With the franchise preparing to overhaul the position, league observers believe Jones could become a realistic target as early as 2026.

ESPN reporter Rich Cimini identified him as a possible external avenue the Jets could explore. He noted that the former Patriots first-round pick has regained momentum after landing in San Francisco’s system.

"Mac Jones, who has resurrected his career in Kyle Shanahan's quarterback-friendly offense, is the most intriguing option," Cimini wrote on Monday.

"As Brock Purdy's injury replacement, Jones is 5-3 with the San Francisco 49ers. Maybe he'd fit for one or two years, allowing the Jets to wait until 2027 to draft their long-term solution."

NFL: San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals - Source: Imagn

New York holds additional first-round picks obtained through recent roster moves.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn informed the team that Fields would be relegated to a backup role for the foreseeable future. He named Tyrod Taylor as the starter moving forward.

If Jones becomes an option, he would join Fields and Zach Wilson as members of the 2021 first-round quarterback group to pass through New York.

Woody Johnson criticized Justin Fields during Jets’ winless slide

NFL: New York Jets at New England Patriots - Source: Imagn

Jets owner Woody Johnson voiced frustration with Justin Fields during the team’s 0-7 start. He placed responsibility on quarterback performance as a central issue behind the skid.

"It's hard when you have a quarterback with a rating that he's got," Johnson told reporters in October. "I mean, (Fields) has ability, but something just is not jibing. You have to play consistently at that position, and that's what we're going to try to do for the remainder of the season."

Fields acknowledged that he heard Johnson’s comments but declined to engage in a response.

"I'm not sure how he feels about the situation at all, but, I mean, I don't have any plans going up to press him about what he said," Fields said. "Everybody's entitled to their opinion. That's just what it is, but you just have a choice or not whether those opinions affect you or not."

Fields’ production through 10 appearances reflected ongoing challenges. He completed 62.7% of his throws for 1,259 yards with seven touchdowns and one interception. He also showed mobility on the ground with 383 rushing yards and four scores.