Fields Confident in Starting Role After Jets Benching

Florham Park, N.J. Justin Fields expressed confidence in his ability to return as a starting quarterback in the NFL, even as his future with the New York Jets remains uncertain following his benching last week in favor of veteran Tyrod Taylor.

The 26-year-old Fields, who signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets in March that includes $30 million in guaranteed money, addressed reporters for the first time since the change on Wednesday. He acknowledged the surprise of the decision, which came after a 1-5 start in his six appearances, where he completed 62.7 percent of his passes for 1,259 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception. His average of 140 passing yards per game ranked near the bottom of the league among qualifiers, including games with fewer than 60 yards in four starts.

Fields was replaced following a loss to the New England Patriots on Nov. 13, where he went 15 of 26 for 116 yards and a touchdown. Jets coach Aaron Rodgers cited the need to improve the offense, which had ranked last in passing yards per game much of the season. "Nah, I did not anticipate it, whatsoever," Fields said. He described the initial shock, noting it took about a day and a half...