Justin Fields to the Panthers? Not So Fast.
A recent headline making the rounds online claimed that the Carolina Panthers had signed quarterback Justin Fields to a four-year, $120 million contract following victories over the Jets and Vikings. While such news would have sent shockwaves through the NFL world, this report appears to be false. Official sources and credible sports outlets confirm that Justin Fields is now with the New York Jets, not the Panthers.
According to multiple reputable sources, including Spotrac and Sporting News, Fields agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract with the New York Jets during the 2025 offseason. The deal includes a $15 million signing bonus and $30 million in guaranteed money. Fields joined the Jets following the departure of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who either retired or moved on from the team. Fields is expected to take over as the starting quarterback, marking a new chapter in his young NFL career after an up-and-down tenure with the Chicago Bears.
The Panthers, meanwhile, have been active in their own right this offseason—but not in the quarterback market. Their front office has focused on shoring up the defense and rebuilding the trenches. One notable move was the signing of defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton to a three-year, $30 million deal. Wharton, who previously played with the Kansas City Chiefs, brings athleticism and depth to Carolina’s defensive front.
At quarterback, the Panthers still appear to be committed to second-year player Bryce Young, who was selected No. 1 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Although Young struggled during his rookie season, the organization seems invested in his development and has not indicated any immediate plans to move on. Head coach Dave Canales and the new offensive staff are reportedly focused on improving the offensive line and adding more weapons to support Young in his sophomore campaign.
The confusion over Justin Fields’ team affiliation likely stems from rumors that swirled earlier in the offseason. Several teams, including the Panthers, were floated as potential landing spots for Fields after it became clear that his time in Chicago was ending. However, the Jets ultimately secured him in what many believe is a low-risk, high-upside move.
Fields, a former Ohio State standout, has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency and injuries. A fresh start in New York could be exactly what he needs to live up to the promise he showed coming out of college. Whether he can thrive under the bright lights of MetLife Stadium remains to be seen, but the Jets clearly believe in his potential.
As for the Panthers, fans hoping for a dramatic quarterback shake-up will need to temper their expectations—at least for now. Barring a major shift in strategy, it looks like Carolina is rolling with Bryce Young in 2025, while Justin Fields begins a new chapter in the AFC East.
