Bold prediction has Justin Fields gone after one season with Jets

Former Chicago Bears first-round pick Justin Fields is getting a fresh start with the New York Jets after signing a two-year, $40 million deal this offseason. While that contract implies a multi-season commitment, some early predictions suggest Fields could be one-and-done in the Big Apple.

In the latest 2026 NFL mock draft from Pro Football Network, Justin Fields lasts just one season as the Jets’ quarterback before being replaced with the No. 2 overall pick by Texas star Arch Manning.

“There’s a very real possibility that Arch Manning will not declare for the 2026 NFL Draft and instead return to Texas for his senior season. However, if that doesn’t happen, he has all the tools to be a top selection this year,” PFSN wrote.

The Manning quarterback dynasty appears to follow a familiar script when it comes to entering the NFL Draft. Neither Peyton nor Eli declared early, and Arch is expected to follow suit, especially with NIL deals already bringing in money comparable to a rookie first-round contract.

All eyes will be on Texas this season with Arch Manning at QB pic.twitter.com/GlK6Hd6JAT

— OnTexasFootball (@ontexasfootball) July 1, 2025

“Manning has only started two college football games, but will officially take the helm for the Longhorns in 2025,” PFSN continued. “From the small sample size he put on tape in 2024, it’s already clear he has the arm, athleticism, size, and overall skill set to be as good as any quarterback in the country. Manning could be considered the best player in this class with a good season at Texas this year.”

Unfortunately for Justin Fields, his NFL trajectory is looking more like that of a journeyman than the franchise cornerstone he was expected to be in Chicago. And while it still feels like the Bears failed him more than the other way around, his opportunity with the Jets may be his last real shot to prove he belongs as a starting quarterback.

Justin Fields being 4th on this list with only 50 games played is wild

: @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/dxuZ9x3HZ6

— (@NYJets_Media) June 27, 2025

Justin Fields spent the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he performed reasonably well. Reports indicated the Steelers were interested in bringing him back, but Fields chose to sign with the Jets instead. Time will tell if he made the right move.