Jets Bench Fields, Taylor Starts vs Ravens

Jets Make the Move: Tyrod Taylor Takes Over as Starting Quarterback

In a stunning decision amid a disappointing 2-8 season, the New York Jets have benched starting quarterback Justin Fields in favor of veteran Tyrod Taylor. The move, confirmed by multiple sources, sees 36-year-old Taylor get the nod for this Sunday's crucial matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

Why the Change? Justin Fields' Struggles

Fields' benching comes after a string of lackluster performances that have plagued the Jets' offense all season. In Thursday night's 27-14 loss to the New England Patriots, Fields managed just 116 passing yards, continuing a season-long trend. The Jets' passing attack currently ranks dead last in the NFL (32nd) with only 139.9 yards per game.

Through nine starts, Fields has recorded:

• 1,259 passing yards
• 7 touchdowns
• 1 interception
• 30th-ranked Total QBR (37.7)

The decision was nearly made a few weeks ago. Coach Aaron Glenn benched Fields at halftime during a Week 7 loss to the Carolina Panthers and was leaning toward Taylor, but a knee injury to Taylor delayed the move. Fields did lead the Jets to two wins after the bye week, but the offense remained inconsistent.

Tyrod Taylor: The Veteran Choice

Taylor, a 15-year NFL veteran and former Pro Bowler, brings a steady hand to the quarterback room. He previously started for the Jets in Week 3, completing 26 of 36 passes for 197 yards with two touchdowns and one interception against Tampa Bay. That performance was a stark contrast to Fields' output, as Taylor recorded multiple touchdown passes in a game Fields has only achieved once all season.

Taylor has appeared in 97 regular-season games with 59 career starts across multiple franchises. His experience and ability to manage games could provide stability for a Jets team that has struggled with consistency.

What This Means for the Jets' Future

The benching raises significant questions about Fields' future with the Jets. Signed to a two-year, $40 million contract this offseason (with $30 million guaranteed), Fields is now under scrutiny. The team holds the fifth pick in the 2026 NFL draft and possesses multiple first-round selections (including two in 2026 and three in 2027), positioning them to potentially trade up for a franchise quarterback.

Meanwhile, coach Aaron Glenn is "evaluating everything" following the Patriots loss, signaling a period of reassessment for the struggling franchise. The Jets have lost seven of eight games, with their only victories coming in wild, high-scoring affairs.

Upcoming Challenge: Jets vs Ravens

Taylor faces an immediate tough test against a Ravens team riding a four-game winning streak. Baltimore's defense has been dominant recently, and the Jets will be without star wide receiver Garrett Wilson (injured reserve). Taylor's familiarity with Baltimore adds an intriguing subplot – the Ravens drafted him in 2011.

This move represents a significant shift in the Jets' quarterback room as they look to salvage some momentum in what has become a lost season. With draft capital accumulating and questions about Fields' long-term fit, the Jets are clearly positioning themselves for a potential reset in 2026.