Jets Bench Justin Fields Replace Tyrod Taylor Against Panthers

The New York Jets, struggling with an 0-6 start to the season, benched quarterback Justin Fields at halftime during their Week 7 game against the Carolina Panthers, trailing 13-3. Fields had a disappointing first half, completing only six of 12 passes for 46 yards, rushing for 22 yards, and taking three sacks, continuing a season-long pattern of offensive struggles despite not throwing any interceptions. In his place, veteran Tyrod Taylor, a 36-year-old journeyman with experience on seven NFL teams, was inserted to lead the offense for the second half, though Taylor's initial drives included a punt and an interception. Fields, who signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Jets last season after a year with the Steelers, had shown some promise earlier in the year but recently regressed, prompting Jets head coach Aaron Glenn to make the change. Taylor, who has thrown for over 12,500 yards and rushed for over 2,000 yards in his career, may be considered for a more permanent role depending on performance. The Jets are seeking their first win and hope the quarterback switch sparks an offensive turnaround.