Tyrod Taylor reveals how Justin Fields has handled Jets benching

Charlie Baduini

Tyrod Taylor reveals how Justin Fields has handled Jets benching image

The New York Jets gave Tyrod Taylor the starting nod over Justin Fields last week, and it doesn't appear they'll be going back to the former Buckeye anytime soon.

Taylor played well against the Baltimore Ravens, completing 60.7% of his passes for 222 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception.

The veteran quarterback was asked during his media availability on Wednesday how Fields has handled the benching.

Tyrod Taylor says Justin Fields is 'team-first'

"His energy hasn’t changed. He’s a leader and one of our captains. He’s a team-first guy," Taylor told gathered reporters.

"I respect the hell out of him for it because I know the circumstances are tough, but I also know Justin is a believer, he has faith, and he stands firm in that."

The benching likely wasn't easy for Fields, but it's cool to see the quarterback is still living up to his leadership role as a captain.

Fields' benching stemmed from his inability to consistently operate the offense at a high level, and he failed to eclipse 60 yards passing in four of his starts.

The nail in the coffin was Week 11's primetime loss against the New England Patriots, where he completed 57.7% of his passes for 116 yards.

With the 35-year-old Taylor under center, the Jets offense certainly operates better, allowing New York's pass catchers more opportunities through the air.

Taylor is in line to start for New York's Week 13 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, with Fields set to serve as the backup for the second week in a row.

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Contributing Writer