NFL Insider Opens Door to Shocking Justin Fields-Jets Reunion

East Rutherford, N.J.—After a season in which the New York Jets’ quarterback room produced more questions than victories, the assumption around One Jets Drive has been that both Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor would be shown the exit. Yet a surprising voice is urging caution: ESPN analyst Ben Solak says he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the Jets double back and keep Fields in green and white for 2025.

The financial stakes are stark. Fields is owed a fully guaranteed $20 million; releasing him would trigger a $10 million buy-out and erase the remaining $10 million from the books. For a franchise flush with cap space, the decision is less about cash and more about calculus.

“I don’t think it would be egregious for the Jets to enter next season with a QB room of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor and (insert middle-round rookie here),” Solak wrote, arguing that the free-agent alternatives represent only marginal upgrades. He notes that Fields, while “frustratingly cautious,” still offers a higher ceiling than many available veterans.

Solak also poured cold water on the idea of importing a division rival’s signal-caller. Given the Jets’ intimate knowledge of Tua Tagovailoa’s tendencies, he views Kyler Murray as the more realistic splash target. Even so, general manager Darren Mougey—who witnessed the Russell Wilson debacle in Denver—may be reluctant to mortgage assets for another high-priced quarterback.

The simplest math may be the most compelling. Cutting Fields and signing a replacement such as Malik Willis could cost the Jets upwards of $30 million in 2025 cap commitments. Retaining Fields, even as a high-end backup, keeps resources free to fortify a roster that still believes it is one steady quarterback away from contention.

While a divorce remains the likely outcome, the growing chatter inside league circles suggests a reunion is no longer out of the question. For a franchise desperate to escape the NFL’s quarterback carousel, the most shocking move might be the one that keeps the status quo.