New York Jets running back Breece Hall has launched a fierce public defence of teammate Justin Fields, lashing out at a reporter for what he deemed a 'pathetic' and childish approach in the locker room.
The Confrontation That Sparked the Outburst
The incident unfolded after Brian Costello of the New York Post approached quarterback Justin Fields at his locker. Fields had just been demoted as the team's starting quarterback for the second time this season, with head coach Aaron Glenn opting to start Tyrod Taylor against the Baltimore Ravens.
According to Costello's social media post, when he asked for Fields' reaction to the benching, the quarterback replied he was on his way to a massage and did not have time to talk. Pressed further, Fields reportedly said, "There’s no reaction. That’s life. S*** happens."
Hall's Viral Defence of His Teammate
Seeing this account, Breece Hall did not hold back. The 24-year-old running back fired back at Costello in a response that quickly went viral across social media platforms.
"Pathetic move by you tbh," Hall stated directly. "Wish some of yall would grow up and stop acting like little kids nagging somebody till they get mad lol."
To further emphasise his point, Hall also reposted another user's comment which likened the New York media to a four-year-old child repeatedly asking "why, why, why."
Fan Reaction and the Quarterback Carousel
The public criticism from Hall divided fans online. Many supporters applauded the player for standing up for his teammate against perceived media harassment. One fan commented, "Amen!! Love seeing someone on the Jets stick up for Fields," while another called the reporters' behaviour "exhausting."
However, others argued that facing difficult questions is part of a professional athlete's role, with one person posting, "You guys get paid tens of millions of dollars you can handle being asked a singular question about your job."
This controversy comes amidst ongoing instability at the quarterback position for the Jets. Tyrod Taylor, 36, is set to replace Fields after Glenn's previous attempt to make the switch backfired dramatically earlier this season. Taylor injured his knee in practice after being named starter, forcing Fields back into the role, where he subsequently led the team to its first victory against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Despite another win against the Cleveland Browns after a bye week, a "dire display" in the 27-14 loss to the New England Patriots last Thursday appears to have prompted Coach Glenn to try once more with Taylor, a player he has consistently spoken highly of.
