NY Jets insider reveals projected price tag for top QB target Justin Fields

The NY Jets have seemingly identified their preferred quarterback target as they enter free agency: Justin Fields. Multiple reports confirm that the Jets are expected to make Fields one of their top priorities this offseason, although they won't be alone.

The Pittsburgh Steelers remain in contact with Fields about a potential return, while a few other teams are interested in the former first-round pick. Despite his inconsistencies, Fields will garner plenty of interest in a weak quarterback market this offseason.

That interest could drive up his market value. If the Jets are serious about signing Fields, what will it cost them? With the unofficial start of free agency just a day away, we now have a pretty good idea of his expected price tag.

ESPN's Rich Cimini revealed Fields' potential valuation on an episode of the Flight Deck podcast on Thursday. Cimini insisted that he wouldn't be surprised if the Jets signed Fields to "something like a two-year, $20 million contract." That's probably a fair starting point for his projected market value.

The NY Jets are targeting Justin Fields in free agency

The 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields started his first three seasons in Chicago, but his tenure was marred by inconsistencies. Turnovers, accuracy issues, and a tendency to hold onto the ball too long ultimately led the Bears to move on after just three years.

Fields was traded to the Steelers in March of last year and given an opportunity to compete for the starting job. He ultimately "won" the job, although that was partially due to a calf injury his competition, Russell Wilson, suffered in the summer.

Fields played some of the most efficient football of his career in those six starts with the Steelers, leading his team to a 4-2 record. The former Ohio State star scored 10 total touchdowns (five passing) and threw just one interception, but that didn't prevent him from inevitably being benched for Wilson.

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It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Fields. While he did a better job protecting the football, his explosive-play rate dropped significantly as he took on more of a game-manager role.

According to Pro Football Focus, the 26-year-old recorded just six big-time throws in six games — the same number of turnover-worthy plays — suggesting he also benefited from some good fortune.

Still, Fields offers a level of upside that many others in this free-agent class simply don’t. The Jets view him as a high-ceiling bridge quarterback who can bring a new dimension to their offense with his rushing ability.

Cimini's projection of two years, $20 million feels like a reasonable starting point, but given the scarcity of quarterbacks in free agency, it wouldn't be surprising to see him receive even more on the open market.

The Jets will need to decide how much they’re willing to invest in Fields, especially with other teams potentially driving up his price. If they see him as the best bridge option available, they may have to act quickly and be prepared to pay a relative premium.

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