Latest news with #JustinFields
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Steelers' 2025 Season Prediction Will Shock Many
Steelers' 2025 Season Prediction Will Shock Many originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Pittsburgh Steelers are fresh off a forgettable 2024 season. Yes, the team won 10 games. Yes, the team made the playoffs. But by black and gold standards, it was a poor effort all around. A 10-3 start and multigame lead in the AFC North quickly fizzled out when Pittsburgh lost its final four regular-season games, including two to division opponents, and limped into a wild-card matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. Pittsburgh's play under center — with time split between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson — was subpar, the offensive line play was poor, and the defense fell apart toward the end of the season. While general manager Omar Khan completely turned over the QB room ... again ... and brought in a couple of notable players in free agency, trades and the NFL draft, the team seems far from the Super Bowl contender that Khan seems to think it is. Pro Football & Sports Network released its 2025 season predictions for each NFL team, and thinks Pittsburgh won't get to double-digit wins ... far from it. Pittsburgh Steelers 2025 Prediction Projected Win-Loss Record: 5.7-11.3 Playoff Probability: 5.6% Divisional Probability: 0.4% Super Bowl Probability: 0.1% "Through 18 seasons as the Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach, Mike Tomlin has not finished with a losing record. According to the PFSN NFL Playoff Predictor, there's a good chance that streak gets broken in 2025," PFSN wrote. "Granted, the Steelers were aggressive in upgrading their roster this offseason. Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay all stand out as big additions. "Rodgers is a massive wild card, though, and their core is getting older. Pittsburgh can never be written off with Tomlin as their coach, but there's a wide range of outcomes." This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
New York Times
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
The players I can't stop drafting in 2025 fantasy football… so far
'Who are you wearing?' Wait, no, I'm not on a red carpet. This is a fantasy football piece, and the question is, 'Who am I drafting?' Every year, among my numerous drafts, I end up with a collection of highly drafted players commonly found on my rosters. Essentially, you could call this 'Jake's Guys,' or as I prefer, players that make Jake go, 'Duck Yeah!' On second thought, forget the red-carpet nonsense. Get me voice work in another 'DuckTales' reboot or 'Darkwing Duck,' whenever they wise up and give it another run! Advertisement You're probably saying, 'Enough!' All right, let's get to who I've drafted the most to date. I'll check back in with a column in August for another look at 'My Guys' with possible new names or ones who fell off, as costs change. Justin Fields (NYJ): The only risk I see with Fields is what we're already concerned about: injury. Fields doesn't need to be a great passer to be a great fantasy quarterback. Last year, his two games of 23+ fantasy points included just one passing touchdown … combined. Additionally, in 2022, when Fields played 15 games, he was QB6 overall and QB5 in fantasy points per game (FPPG) despite only throwing for 2,242 yards and 17 touchdowns. I'm not projecting Fields for another 1,100+ yards on the ground, but if he plays 15+ games, 900+ rushing yards is more than attainable, landing Fields in the Top 10, and perhaps higher. Dak Prescott (DAL): Unlike Fields, Prescott needs to carry most of his fantasy value with his arm, and admittedly, he looked quite poor last year. However, the Cowboys massively upgraded with George Pickens as their No. 2 wideout, compared to Brandin Cooks, who was toast (play on words intended), and the collection of options they trotted out in 2024. Prescott has 30+ touchdowns and at least 4,449 yards passing in each of his past three seasons of 16+ games, and given his double-digit round cost, I'm taking the discount. Christian McCaffrey (SF): You're either willing to embrace the risk for the potential of getting the RB1 and best player overall, or you're not. I am, given McCaffrey's ceiling of being 1-3 FPPG better than the next best running back. Kenneth Walker (SEA): Initially, I was out on Walker, expecting more of a Steelers-like timeshare. After all, Zach Charbonnet was quite good filling in for Walker last year. But I talked to our Seahawks writer Michael-Shawn Dugar, who told me to expect a bell-cow-like season for Walker. With that workload, Walker is pushing the RB1 tier. Advertisement TreVeyon Henderson (NE): I referenced this stat before, but as a reminder, there has been one running back in the past 10 years to reach RB1 status with fewer than 200 touches: James White. That's the role Henderson will play — at minimum — with upside for more. No, he's not an RB1 for me, but a great RB2 for any fantasy team? Most definitely. Cam Skattebo (NYG): Tyrone Tracy was a nice fantasy find, but he's still a bit limited as a runner and has fumbling concerns. Skattebo will cede some touches to Tracy, but should be the 1A to Tracy's 1B. I expect mid-200 touches for Skattebo, including passing game work, which often gets overlooked in his ability and upside. J.K. Dobbins (DEN): Yes, the ceiling and excitement are with RJ Harvey, but there is still a chance Harvey falters and Dobbins leads this backfield. Dobbins is no more than a value pick, as whether by injury or performance. If Harvey gives way to Dobbins as the lead, RB2 value is in play. Nick Chubb (HOU): Most of the offseason, I answered, 'Why do I hate Mixon?' with, 'The injury and additions of Woody Marks and Chubb.' Similar to Dobbins, this is a value pick, as Chubb might only have RB2 value for the first half of the season, but there is a non-zero chance that Mixon 1) doesn't return in 2025 or 2) returns and never looks the same. Jordan Mason (MIN): As per this list, these are heavily drafted players, so Mason was here even before Kevin O'Connell praised Mason. Like all Vikings RBs, Aaron Jones struggled to run the ball into the end zone, and while Mason wasn't Derrick Henry, he brings the potential for a timeshare backfield. This would be the inverse of the Steelers (Mason on the short end, but in the Najee Harris role), but that's a fine RB3 for WR-heavy teams, and if Jones were to miss time, Mason would bring Top 20 upside. Advertisement DJ Giddens (IND): Don't say, 'I told you so.' Don't say, 'I told you so.' Don't say, 'I told you…' Ahhh! I really tried. Jokes aside, Giddens — whom I compared to David Montgomery — is the backup behind Jonathan Taylor. And that's now coming from the mouth of Shane Steichen, not just me. Taylor has missed time each of the past three seasons. Giddens is a terrific backup pick. Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET): Apparently, my willingness to take ASB in the mid-first has led to several shares. St. Brown had 146, 164 and 141 targets, respectively, the past three seasons, and while some argue that touchdown regression is coming, I argue back for a potential rebound in yards per reception. Oh, and include in that argument that 141 targets and 106 receptions (the low marks in those three seasons) is as good a floor as you can get for someone not named Ja'Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson or CeeDee Lamb. Xavier Worthy (KC): I already had a few Worthy picks before the renewed Rashee Rice suspension concern. Worthy ended his rookie season much like Rice did, which I felt could lead to Worthy and Rice combining for 50-60% of the targets and Travis Kelce falling to third (more on him later). Now with Rice potentially suspended for 6+ games, Worthy is in play as a high-ceiling WR2. Calvin Ridley (TEN): I'll just leave you with this tweet. 64-1,017-4 On 120 targets from Levis and Rudolph, and a mere 7 RZ targets and ONE end zone target — Jake Ciely (@allinkid) July 26, 2025 Chris Godwin (TB): I understand the injury concern with Godwin, but there is zero injury-related wording in Godwin's new contract. No outs, clauses, whatever. That points to the Buccaneers' confidence in Godwin being good for 2025. While Emeka Egbuka might concern you, I credit the Bucs as forward-thinking, preparing for a post-Mike Evans depth chart. Godwin has Top 20 upside at a mid-low WR3 cost. Chris Olave (NO): The Saints might have the worst quarterback situation in the NFL, but even the worst quarterback can provide WR2 potential for his top receiver. Yes, Olave's concussions are worrisome, but like Godwin, he merely costs you a WR3 price after one year removed from a Top 25 finish overall and in FPPG. Matthew Golden (GB): Golden can be what the Packers hoped Christian Watson could be — aka, a healthy Watson. Golden can be the Packers' top wideout immediately, and if so, 100-110 targets can provide 60+ receptions, 1,000+ yards and 5+ touchdowns — basically Calvin Ridley's 2024 season at a WR5 price. Advertisement Jayden Higgins (HOU): I see some Marvin Jones in Higgins' game, and Dane Brugler compared him to Nico Collins. Well, I certainly hope I'm the wrong one, but even if Higgins is just Jones in fantasy, that's at least WR4 value. Higgins is the favorite to be the No. 2 option alongside Collins, and if C.J. Stroud bounces back, a Top 25 finish is possible. Joshua Palmer (BUF): Palmer has been productive in spurts, and while Khalil Shakir is the top target option for Josh Allen, the No. 2 role is up for grabs. Keon Coleman is obviously in play, but if he can't make significant improvements from his rookie season, and Palmer takes advantage in that role, a Golden-like (or Ridley-like) season is within reason, assuming Palmer can stay healthy. Roman Wilson (PIT): You might have heard or read my referencing Mike Tomlin coaching Wilson in the Senior Bowl practices. Tomlin tested Wilson against Quinyon Mitchell — you know, that really good corner for the Eagles — and then drafted Wilson in the third round. Wilson lost his rookie season to injuries, but the No. 2 role is up for grabs, and DK Metcalf won't be the only productive Steelers wideout in 2025. Travis Kelce (KC): Back to Kelce, and hopefully, back to anything close to pre-2024 Kelce. While there were signs Kelce had neared the end, he still had a line of 133-97-823-3 in 16 games for 9.3 FPPG. That's not a difference-maker at tight end, but again, if Rice is suspended, Kelce can still be a Top 2 option for Patrick Mahomes. Even taking Kelce's 2024 season with a smidge of touchdown improvement would have him back inside the tight end Top 5, and with double-digit FPPG. Brenton Strange (JAX): While many chase the third option for the Lions and Vikings (Sam LaPorta and T.J. Hockenson), I'd rather spend that early-mid pick elsewhere and take a chance on Strange. If Liam Coen unlocks Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars, Strange can provide value equivalent to those two at a last-round pick cost. (Photo of Kenneth Walker: Steph Chambers / Getty Images)
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Justin Fields named Jets' biggest wild card for 2025 season
The Jets are well into their training camp schedule, and we've already learned quite a bit about this roster. However, Jet fans collectively held their breath when new quarterback Justin Fields had to be carted off the field last week. Thankfully, it was just a minor toe injury, and Fields has since returned to the field. Fields is arguably the most important player on the roster for 2025, so a summer injury would be absolutely devastating. The team gave Fields a two-year, $40 million contract this offseason, and the hope is that Fields can finally figure things out on his third NFL team. Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports recently identified the 10 biggest wild cards for the 2025 season. On Sullivan's list, Fields came in at the No. 2 spot. The Jets have dealt with poor quarterback play for so long, so it's understandable. Regarding Fields and the Jets, Sullivan offered the following: I might be in the minority, but I loved the decision to sign Justin Fields for the New York Jets. At two years, $40 million, it's a low-risk move to see whether or not the former first-round pick can become the latest veteran quarterback to enjoy a late breakout like Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield and Darnold before him. If he does follow in those footsteps, the Jets could be the surprise team of 2025. They have a true No. 1 wideout in Wilson (who has a built-in relationship with Fields from their days at Ohio State), and a defense that was tied with Denver for second in the league a season ago in yards per play allowed. We've seen Fields make impact plays with his legs, and if he can develop as a passer, New York suddenly has a capable quarterback to pair with its stout defense. If he continues to struggle through the air, however, the Jets' ceiling will be lowered. As Sullivan mentioned, the Jets gave Fields a low-risk, high-reward deal with the hope that Fields could be the next Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield, or Sam Darnold. If things go well, the Jets would have a relatively cheap, productive quarterback to go with a stout defense. Quinnen Williams, Jamien Sherwood, and Sauce Gardner are elite defenders who deserve to play meaningful football, and that hasn't happened yet largely due to inconsistency from the offense. In 2024, Fields played in 10 games for the Steelers and threw for 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception. The former first-round pick was unable to hold onto the starting gig, though, and was ultimately replaced by Russell Wilson. Now, Fields is hoping that the third time's the charm after flaming out with the Bears and Steelers. If the quarterback struggles once again, the Jets are likely doomed to repeat another mediocre-at-best season.
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Justin Fields odds to win 2025 NFL MVP
Looking at the favorites to win the NFL's MVP award this season, Justin Fields does not make the list -- but he is ranked 16th in the odds, at +15000. He averaged 110.6 passing yards and threw for five TDs last year. He also pitched in with his legs, accumulating five touchdowns and averaging 28.9 yards. Justin Fields futures odds NFL odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook. Odds updated Wednesday at 4:17 p.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub. Justin Fields 2024 game log Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change. Gambling involves risk. Please only gamble with funds that you can comfortably afford to lose. While we do our utmost to offer good advice and information we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of gambling. We do our best to make sure all the information that we provide on this site is correct. However, from time to time mistakes will be made and we will not be held liable. Please check any stats or information if you are unsure how accurate they are. No guarantees are made with regards to results or financial gain. All forms of betting carry financial risk and it is up to the individual to make bets with or without the assistance of information provided on this site and we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of following the betting tips provided on this site. Past performances do not guarantee success in the future and betting odds fluctuate from one minute to the next. The material contained on this site is intended to inform, entertain and educate the reader and in no way represents an inducement to gamble legally or illegally or any sort of professional advice. Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside. It is your sole responsibility to act in accordance with your local laws.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
WATCH: Highlights from Jets' first padded practice
The vibes seemed a lot cheerier around the New York Jets on Monday as they practiced with pads on for the first time in this year's training camp. There was another first in Monday's practice, and that was a live tackling drill run by head coach Aaron Glenn himself. Teams don't really do live tackling in training camp anymore and, according to Jets insider Rich Cimini, the last time the Jets did something similar was in the Rex Ryan era. But Glenn wants his team to be tough, the kind of team that no one wants to play in December and January when the temperature drops below freezing and the hits hurt just a little bit more. The rest of Monday's practice was business as usual. Quarterback Justin Fields was back in team drills, his injury scare from last week receding fast in the rearview mirror. The Jets social media team posted a highlight throw from Fields to rookie tight end Mason Taylor, who made a nice move after the catch, that should get Jets fans excited. Not for how pretty it was (the ball was actually rather wobbly), but for what it means for Fields. Through his first four years in the NFL, one of the biggest problems in Fields' game has been targeting the middle of the field in the short to intermediate range. He's always been far more comfortable throwing to the sidelines or heaving the rock fifty yards downfield. That's his comfort zone, but that's not how winning quarterbacks thrive. Winning quarterbacks hit the middle of the field early and often. That's their bread and butter and it requires the quarterback to deliver strikes on time and in rhythm, often into windows no bigger than a mailbox. It's encouraging to see Fields making that kind of throw in camp, and Jets fans have to hope that it translates consistently into games. Another highlight came from second-year running back Braelon Allen. After taking the handoff from Fields, he makes a sharp cut to his right and hits the afterburns, reaching full speed almost immediately as he blows past the defense. This clip will be sweet for the fans, but it should put running back Breece Hall on notice. He's under a metric ton of pressure to have a career year in 2025 or he may end up looking for a new team in 2026. Another mediocre year from Hall combined with a breakout season from Allen could spell the end for his tenure with the Jets.
