NFL News: Darren Mougey sends strong message about Justin Fields' role with the Jets

Darren Mougey wants the New York Jets to have a much better season than last year, and his latest comments reflected that enthusiasm—especially when discussing Justin Fields and his expected role with the franchise in 2025.

Speaking to SNY about various aspects of the Jets’ upcoming season, Mougey took the opportunity to make it clear that Fields will be the team’s starting quarterback. “Justin is the starter. We believe in Justin, we believe we can win with Justin. We’re excited about Justin’s potential.”

With that statement, Mougey not only confirmed Fields as the starting quarterback but also emphasized the team’s full confidence in him to turn things around in 2025 after last season’s painful 5-12 record—the franchise’s fifth consecutive year with 10 or more losses.

It’s worth noting that Justin Fields has never had a truly successful season, and the Jets haven’t reached the postseason in over a decade. His most recent experience came in Pittsburgh under Mike Tomlin, a seasoned head coach who had a much stronger offensive line than the Jets. Fields also spent time as the backup to Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson.

Will the Jets draft a new quarterback?

Despite his strong backing of Fields, Mougey also acknowledged that the team has yet to decide what type of player they will select with the No. 7 overall pick. “We’re going to evaluate the quarterbacks,” he stated, while making it clear that no final decision has been made. “I don’t know who we’re going to take at 7, we’re going to have those meetings next month.”

The Jets must take care of their offensive weapons

Beyond Fields, Mougey also addressed the future of the team’s young talent, particularly those who could provide crucial support for their new starting quarterback. One player in need of a contract extension is Garrett Wilson, but when asked about it, Mougey sidestepped the question. “Those are good ‘problems’ to have… but right now, my focus is on the draft.”