Why Justin Fields Believes Playing in Every Preseason Game Could Boost His Performance

Jets head coach Aaron Glenn hasn’t shared his plans for the starters in the upcoming preseason game against the Packers. However, quarterback Justin Fields has opinions about what should happen.

It’s Fields’ first year with Glenn and offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, and things haven’t always gone smoothly in practice. He recently mentioned that the offense needs to improve on “plain and simple things.” For him, getting game time in all three preseason matchups would help the team find its rhythm.

“I think we need to see the field each game,” Fields stated. He believes that playing together will benefit everyone, especially in learning the new offense. While some players might skip the preseason, he thinks that’s not an option for the Jets this year, given the coaching changes.

Recently, Fields raised some eyebrows when he had to be carted off the field after dislocating his toe. Fortunately, he recovered quickly. This has left Glenn and the coaching staff in a tough spot—they need to give the offense enough reps in games but must also consider the risk of injuries.

In recent trends, NFL teams are more cautious about injuries during preseason. According to a 2023 survey by the NFL Players Association, almost 60% of players prefer limited playtime in preseason games to avoid injuries. This reflects a shift in mentality towards putting player health first, especially for teams with new players and coaching staff.

As the Jets navigate preseason preparations, fans are eagerly watching how this impacts team chemistry and performance. It’s a balancing act, but one that’s crucial for setting the tone for the season ahead. For more insights on player health and preseason strategies, you can check out this NFL Players Association report here.

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