Jets Prepare Tyrod Taylor for Possible Start Against Buccaneers

The New York Jets are planning for the possibility of starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor this Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as Justin Fields remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol. Fields sustained the concussion during the fourth quarter of a 30-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills when he was hit by defensive end Joey Bosa. Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed the team is preparing game plans for both quarterbacks given the current uncertainty.

Fields was injured after his helmet struck the turf while being tackled, marking his first documented concussion in the NFL, although he previously experienced a concussion while playing at Ohio State. He finished the game with a career-low QBR of 1.1. Glenn expressed concern about the possibility of starting Fields if he is unable to practice on Wednesday and Thursday, as the NFL mandates a five-step protocol for concussion recovery. An independent neurologist must clear the player before he can return to play.

The Jets aim to avoid starting the season with an 0-3 record, a scenario they have not faced since 2021. Should Fields be unable to play, Taylor would take the lead as the starting quarterback. He replaced Fields in the previous game and managed to throw a 5-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jeremy Ruckert during his two drives on the field.

Taylor, who is 36 years old, has a wealth of experience with 58 career starts, but he has not taken the field as a starter since 2023 with the New York Giants. He spent last season on the Jets’ bench behind Aaron Rodgers and only participated in mop-up situations. Although he missed the entire preseason due to arthroscopic knee surgery, Glenn stated that he has confidence in Taylor’s readiness for a potential start.

Glenn remarked, “It doesn’t take much for him to understand exactly what we’re trying to do and what we’re trying to get done, so I have no concerns about that.” This sentiment reflects Taylor’s extensive background in the league and his ability to adapt to game plans quickly.

As the Jets prepare for this crucial matchup, the focus will be on monitoring Fields’ recovery while ensuring Taylor is fully prepared should the need arise. The outcome of this game could significantly impact the team’s trajectory as they strive for a successful season.