Former Steelers QB Shines in First Game With Jets

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Jacksonville Jaguars in their preseason opener, calming the nerves of many after what was a tough offensive performance throughout training camp. Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson led the way, with names like Roman Wilson and Darnell Washington showing their abilities early in the 31-25 win.

But the Steelers quarterbacks weren't the only ones clicking. Former Pittsburgh passer Justin Fields also led the way in a victory, defeating the Green Bay Packers 30-10 and impressing during his first performance with the New York Jets.

He finished his day completing three of four passes for 42 yards and rushing for 14 yards and a touchdown. He was in for just one series, but that series showed plenty of upside for the Jets offense.

Man I’m telling you…don’t let Justin Fields get hot this season. pic.twitter.com/UtcXgE8nhI
— Chase Daniel (@ChaseDaniel) August 10, 2025

The Steelers moved on from Fields this offseason, but not by choice. Pittsburgh's top option at quarterback heading into the offseason was the former Chicago Bears' first-round pick. After being traded to Pittsburgh last offseason, he ended up starting six games while Russell Wilson was injured, leading the Steelers to a 4-2 record and scoring 10 touchdowns in the process.

However, once Wilson returned from a calf injury, Fields was benched. The decision came with plenty of backlash, including reports that internally, coaches supported Fields as the starter.

Oct 28, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields (2) watches the action during the first quarter of a game against the New York Giants at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images | Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Heading into the spring, the Steelers made Fields an offer and hoped they'd be able to develop as their quarterback in 2025. New York made a better offer, leading Fields to the Jets, and making Aaron Rodgers the next option for the Steelers.

Fields and the Steelers will meet in Week 1 when the black and gold travel from Pittsburgh to MetLife Stadium. The matchup will be a revenge game for both sides as Fields gets a shot to showcase his skills to the team that once benched him, and Rodgers gets a shot at revenge against the team that released him - and replaced him with Fields.

Rodgers won't play in the preseason, leaving Rudolph and Thompson, with a splash of Logan Woodside, leading the way. Fields will likely get at least one more game before Week 1.

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