In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has claimed that quarterback Justin Fields was reduced to tears after being overlooked by the team in the 2021 draft.
The Draft Day Drama Unfolds
Johnson dropped the bombshell during a recent interview, painting a vivid picture of Fields' emotional state following the Jets' decision to select Zach Wilson with the second overall pick instead of the Ohio State standout.
"The word on the street was that he was crying in the closet," Johnson revealed, suggesting Fields was so devastated by the snub that he sought solitude to process his disappointment.
Fields' Eventual Landing Spot
Despite the Jets' passing, Fields didn't have to wait long to hear his name called. The Chicago Bears traded up to select him with the 11th overall pick, though his tenure with the team has been marked by both flashes of brilliance and significant challenges.
The young quarterback has shown moments of elite athleticism and playmaking ability, but has struggled with consistency behind questionable offensive lines in Chicago.
What Could Have Been in New York
Johnson's comments inevitably spark speculation about how different both franchises might look today had the Jets chosen differently. While Wilson's time in New York has been largely disappointing, Fields has shown enough potential to make Bears fans optimistic about his future.
The revelation also raises questions about the emotional toll the draft process takes on young athletes, whose professional dreams hang in the balance during those tense selection moments.
Broader Implications for Both Franchises
This behind-the-scenes glimpse comes at a crucial time for both organizations as they evaluate their quarterback situations moving forward. The Jets eventually acquired Aaron Rodgers, while Fields continues to develop as Chicago's potential franchise quarterback.
Johnson's decision to share this intimate detail years later adds another layer to the ongoing narrative surrounding both young quarterbacks and their respective career trajectories.
