Fields to Amp Up Aggression in Passing Game as Jets Hunt for First Victory
As the New York Jets seek their first victory of the season, quarterback Justin Fields is focusing on enhancing the passing game. With the team’s offense struggling significantly, Fields aims to amp up aggression in his playing style.
Current Status of the Jets
The Jets currently hold a record of 0-6, marking one of the worst starts in franchise history. In a recent game against Denver, they experienced a net negative of ten passing yards, underscoring their offensive woes.
Fields’ Approach to Improvement
Justin Fields is prioritizing ball security but recognizes the need to take calculated risks. He expressed, “I feel like I’ve been a little bit too conservative,” and aims to strike a balance between safety and aggression as they face Carolina.
Statistical Insights
Fields has completed only 7.3% of his passes for 20 or more yards this season, which falls nearly 4% below the NFL average. His performance includes:
- 9 completions out of 123 passes for 20+ yards
- 4 completions for 108 yards and 2 touchdowns
- 14 out of 32 passes for 265 yards on throws of 10+ yards
In the loss against Denver, he faced considerable pressure, being sacked nine times, with his completions mirroring that number—just nine on 17 attempts for a meager 45 yards.
Coaching Perspectives
Coach Aaron Glenn acknowledged Fields’ struggles, citing issues with the offensive line and receiver performance. Fields himself noted that improving his footwork is part of addressing his challenges from the previous game.
First-year offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand expressed support for Fields’ new mindset. He stated, “He’s got confidence in his receivers that they’re going to go make a play,” encouraging Fields to push the ball downfield.
Running Game Considerations
Despite his difficulties, Fields has been effective in rushing, ranking second among quarterbacks with 235 yards this season, only behind Buffalo’s Josh Allen. However, the injury has hampered his performance in recent weeks, limiting his agility during games.
As the Jets prepare for their matchup against Carolina, Fields is focusing on combining his passing abilities with effective running, aiming to spark the offense and finally secure a win for his team.
