As the New York Jets continue training camp, they’re doing so with some uncertainty at the quarterback position. Unfortunately for head coach Aaron Glenn’s club, starter Justin Fields suffered an injury during July 24’s practice.
Fields, who signed a two-year deal with the team this offseason, was carted off the field after being evaluated by trainers. It was undoubtedly a scary situation for the club, although specific details on the ailment weren’t available at the time.
Following the conclusion of practice, Glenn had a bit of an update on Fields.
UPDATE: According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Fields suffered a dislocated toe. The original story containing Glenn’s comments, as originally published, resumes below.
Aaron Glenn Speaks on Justin Fields’ Foot Injury at Training Camp
According to Glenn, Fields has a toe injury. It’s on his right foot, although Glenn couldn’t confirm whether it’s Fields’ big toe or not.
“I’m going to go ahead and knock this out now,” Glenn began. “Obviously, Justin went down with a toe injury on the right side of his foot. I don’t know the severity of the injury, but I do know it’s a toe on his right side. Listen, we have an outstanding backup in Tyrod [Taylor] who’s been in this league for around 14 years. The leadership that he brings, listen, we’re all good. We’re all good.”
When asked a follow-up question, Glenn said he believes Fields may have been stepped on.
“You know what, I’d really have to look at the tape,” Glenn said. “I know it’s a quick throw. I’m assuming someone stepped on his toe. It had to be because of the nature of the call we had, as far as the offensive play call. Again, I want to look at the tape and be sure.”
As is the case with any injury, the Jets will continue to evaluate Fields. More information could be coming from Glenn or the team as the week of practice progresses. Glenn said he’d be informed after media availability regarding next steps (MRI, X-ray, etc.).
Glenn & Jets Confident in Backup Tyrod Taylor Should Fields Miss Time
If Fields’ injury lingers, he could miss training camp reps. Should things continue from there, losing reps in the preseason or even the regular season could ensue. With that said, it’s a pointless exercise to project anything without a complete picture of the injury and subsequent recovery timeline (if there is one).
In the event of Fields being out of the lineup, practice or otherwise, Glenn doesn’t think much will change with Taylor on the field.
“Well, I think the most important part is if anything does happen to Justin, I don’t think there’s any drop-off as far as what we want to do when it comes to play calls,” Glenn said. “Very similar when you talk about skill sets, so that was enticing for us.”
That confidence isn’t just present for Taylor’s tangible skills. Glenn believes his leadership sets him apart.
“And then the leadership ability, things that we heard about him,” Glenn said. “I played against him before, and you could just tell the players really gravitate to him. When he says something, everybody really listens – even the coaching staff. He’s been around this league a long time, he knows what it takes to win. He’s a really good person, so we’re all excited to have that guy here. Listen, Justin is who he is. If something happens to him, we’ve got Tyrod [and] we’re ready to go.”
If you’re the Jets and their fans, the hope is Fields can avoid something serious.
Jets HC Aaron Glenn Provides Update on QB Justin Fields’ Injury