Veteran QB Tyrod Taylor Named Jets Starter in Dramatic Midseason Move
The New York Jets have made a bold decision at quarterback, benching Justin Fields and handing the starting job to
Tyrod Taylor for their upcoming Week 12 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The move, first reported by Dianna Russini of The Athletic, comes after weeks of offensive struggles and mounting criticism of Fields, who was acquired in the offseason with high expectations.
Why the Change? Fields Falters, Taylor Steps In
Fields, signed to a two-year,
$40 million deal, was supposed to revive the Jets’ stagnant offense. Instead, his nine-game stretch has been marked by inconsistency and a failure to generate meaningful yardage, with the passing attack failing to eclipse 150 yards in four of the last five games. Despite a respectable
63% completion rate and seven touchdowns to just one interception, Fields’ inability to keep the offense afloat forced the Jets’ hand.
Enter
Tyrod Taylor, the 36-year-old veteran with a reputation for steady play and leadership. Taylor has already appeared in three games this season, completing
62.3% of his passes for 379 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. While not seen as the long-term answer, Taylor’s experience is expected to provide much-needed stability as the Jets look to salvage a disappointing season.
Facing His Former Team: Ravens Reunion
Taylor’s first start as the Jets’ new QB will be against the Baltimore Ravens, the team where he began his NFL career as Joe Flacco’s backup from 2011 to 2014. Taylor earned a Super Bowl ring with the Ravens in 2012 and is remembered for his versatility and professionalism during his tenure in Baltimore. Sunday’s matchup adds a layer of intrigue, as Taylor faces his old squad in a high-stakes AFC showdown.
What’s Next for the Jets?
With Taylor under center, the Jets are shifting into evaluation mode. Neither Taylor nor Fields is expected to be the franchise’s future, and the organization is reportedly considering giving younger players, like practice squad QB Brady Cook, a chance to prove themselves. Rumors from the NFL Combine earlier this year suggested the Jets might draft a developmental quarterback to learn under Taylor, with names like Jalen Milroe floated as possible targets.
The Jets’ playoff hopes are fading, but the remainder of the season will be crucial for assessing talent and planning for 2026. As for Taylor, his veteran presence could help steady the ship and mentor the next generation, even if his time as starter is likely short-lived.
Expert Commentary: Is Taylor the Right Move?
NFL analysts are divided. Some see Taylor as a safe, if unspectacular, choice who can limit turnovers and keep the offense functional. Others argue the Jets should prioritize developing young talent rather than relying on a 36-year-old veteran in a lost season. Regardless, the decision underscores the franchise’s ongoing search for stability at the most important position in football.
Key Takeaways
-
Tyrod Taylor replaces Justin Fields as Jets starting QB for Week 12.
- Fields benched after weeks of poor offensive performance.
- Taylor faces his former team, the Ravens, in his first start.
- Jets expected to evaluate younger QBs and plan for the future.
- Taylor’s role seen as a stopgap, not a long-term solution.
Sources
1. Jets shouldn't stop QB change at just Tyrod Taylor
2. Matthew Berry's 25 Most Interesting Things He Heard At ...
3. Baltimore Ravens Will Face Former Backup QB in Week 12
4. Falcons now must decide what the future looks like at ...
5. Jets Bench Justin Fields, Turn to Veteran Tyrod Taylor - BET
6. Can quarterbacks learn to be accurate while in the NFL?
7. Jets bench Justin Fields; veteran QB Tyrod Taylor to start ...
8. magazine
9. Jets plan to start Tyrod Taylor in Week 12
10. Would you re-sign Buffalo Bills WR Gabe Davis for these ...
11. Justin Fields benched: Jets turn to Tyrod Taylor as starting ...
12. Jets have benched QB Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor to start at ...
