Jets News
[the_ad id=”105842″]New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn announced Wednesday that veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor will start in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The decision follows the team’s ruling that starter Justin Fields will not be available due to a concussion.
Fields sustained the injury during the Jets’ Week 2 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. He left the game in the fourth quarter after hitting his head on the turf. Medical staff evaluated him on the field before he exited, and he did not return. The Jets later confirmed that Fields entered concussion protocol and would not be cleared in time for Sunday’s contest in Tampa.
Taylor replaced Fields in the closing minutes of the 30-10 loss to Buffalo. He completed seven of 11 passes for 56 yards and a touchdown while leading two scoring drives. He also carried the ball three times for 21 yards. His performance provided the Jets with their only touchdown of the game.
The Jets signed Taylor in the offseason to serve as the primary backup behind Fields. At 36 years old, Taylor brings experience across several franchises and remains capable of extending plays with his mobility. His last extended action came during his tenure with the New York Giants in 2023. Since the start of the 2022 season, he has made only five starts.
Glenn confirmed that Taylor will prepare as the starter throughout the practice week. The Jets also promoted practice squad quarterback depth earlier in the season, but Taylor has been the clear second option since training camp. Offensive coordinator adjustments are expected to emphasize the running game while incorporating Taylor’s ability to move outside the pocket.
The Jets enter Week 3 with a 0-2 record following losses to the Los Angeles Chargers in the opener and the Bills in Week 2. The offense has struggled to maintain consistency, with Fields accounting for three interceptions in two games before his injury. Taylor’s role will be to stabilize the unit against a Buccaneers defense that has allowed fewer than 20 points in each of its first two games.
The matchup in Tampa will be the Jets’ first road game against an NFC opponent this season. The Buccaneers stand at 1-1 after defeating the Atlanta Falcons in Week 2. The Jets will need improved production on offense to avoid an 0-3 start, particularly against a defensive front that ranks among the strongest in the NFC.
Kickoff between the Jets and Buccaneers is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at Raymond James Stadium. The team’s final injury report later this week will confirm the availability of other key players, but Glenn stated that quarterback will not be in question. Taylor is set to make his first start as a member of the Jets.
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