Jets may have just prevented a Garrett Wilson trade request by signing Justin Fields

Everyone loves a good reunion, and the Jets just made one happen. Former Ohio State teammates Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson are back together in New York after the Jets agreed to a two-year, $40 million deal with the ex-Buckeyes quarterback on Monday.

The move not only gives the Jets the high-upside bridge quarterback they've been seeking, but it also could have long-term ramifications on the future of their star wide receiver.

Wilson has been at the center of trade speculation this offseason, and while he hasn’t formally requested a trade, many believed it was only a matter of time before the young wideout sought a way out of the organization.

Fields' arrival could change everything. Wilson and Fields were notably teammates at Ohio State and remain close to this day. It's safe to say the Jets' wide receiver already supports the acquisition.

Garrett Wilson is excited about the NY Jets' Justin Fields signing

Wilson was spotted on Instagram ‘liking’ an NFL post about the Jets signing Fields. It’s a small gesture, but it could hint at his approval of the move, perhaps even easing concerns about his future in New York.

Wilson’s reported frustrations with the Jets have been well-documented. The former first-round pick allegedly voiced concerns to the organization after the 2023 season, warning that if things didn’t improve, a trade request could be on the horizon. Well, they didn’t improve.

The Jets sank to new lows in 2024, finishing with a 5-12 record despite the return of Aaron Rodgers and an all-in strategy. The result was one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history, which led to what will ultimately be a clean sweep of the coaching staff and front office.

Wilson, who is eligible for an extension this offseason, wants assurance that the Jets are headed in the right direction. He wants to win football games — and he wants a quarterback he can connect with, something that never seemed to click with Rodgers.

Fields comes with his own shortcomings and is far from a risk-free addition, but he gives the Jets a high-upside short-term starter who already has an established relationship with their star wide receiver. That alone could go a long way in keeping the young receiver engaged and optimistic about the team's direction.

While Wilson’s future in New York isn’t guaranteed, adding Fields at least buys the Jets some time. If Fields proves he can elevate the offense and keep Wilson involved, it could ease concerns about a possible trade request. For now, the Jets have done what they can to reassure their star wide receiver — now it’s up to Fields to deliver.

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