Jets' Justin Fields Faces Former Steelers in Historic Season Opener

New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields is preparing to face his former team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and their new quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the Week 1 matchup, which marks the first season-opening game in NFL history between starting quarterbacks who changed teams they started for the prior year. Despite the media framing the game with revenge storylines, Fields downplays any personal narrative, emphasizing that for him, "it's ball" and he is focused solely on playing. Fields expressed no hard feelings toward the Steelers, appreciating the learning experience he gained during his time there, and noted that everything happens for a reason. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin described Fields as a unique and physically talented quarterback, acknowledging the challenge he presents. Both teams and coaches are avoiding dwelling on past controversies, including the Jets' decision to release Rodgers, who criticized the Jets' coach but is now leading the Steelers. The game at MetLife Stadium is highly anticipated but both sides are keeping the focus on the football itself rather than the off-field storylines.