Justin Fields and Russell Wilson's encounter during a shared practice session draws interest from onlookers
Justin Fields and Russell Wilson Reunite as Rival Quarterbacks in New York
In a surprising twist of fate, two former teammates and competitors, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, found themselves facing off as starting quarterbacks for rival New York teams during the 2025 season. This transition from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the New York Jets and Giants, respectively, has allowed their dynamic to evolve from a competitive one to a mutual respect and friendship.
Their history dates back to the 2024 Steelers training camp, where they both battled for the starting quarterback position. Wilson was initially named the starter but suffered a calf injury, paving the way for Fields to start six games. Fields, in turn, won four of those matches, showcasing his potential. When Wilson returned, he reclaimed his spot, and Fields moved to a backup role. Despite the competition and differing fortunes, they developed a deep respect for each other, with Fields learning from Wilson's professional approach.
Fast forward to the present, and the two have found themselves in the same city but on opposing teams. This change has freed them from direct competition, allowing them to openly support and admire each other. During a joint practice between the New York Jets and Giants, Fields and Wilson were spotted chatting and dapping up after practice, reflecting on the irony and friendship of their situation.
For Fields, this is a chance to prove himself as a potential franchise quarterback. At just 26 years old, he is eager to build on his impressive performance with the Steelers, where he recorded a 65.8% completion percentage, threw only one interception, and finished the season with 1,106 passing yards and 10 total touchdowns (5 passing, 5 rushing). The Jets are hoping that he can limit his turnovers and play similarly to how he did last season to improve upon their 5-12 record from the previous season.
As for Wilson, he has the opportunity to start all season for the New York Giants. This season could be a defining moment for both quarterbacks, with Fields aiming to secure his long-term future with the Jets and Wilson looking to continue his impressive career with the Giants.
Their reunion took place on Wednesday, August 16, during a joint practice in preparation for their preseason game. This meeting marks the first time the two have been seen together since the end of the 2024-25 campaign. It's clear that they are happy to see each other after spending a season together with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Their first regular season matchup will take place on September 7, when the Jets host the Steelers. With Aaron Rodgers now leading the Steelers, it promises to be an exciting contest between two talented quarterbacks who have a shared history. As for the Jets, they are hoping that Fields can lead them to a successful season and secure his place as their long-term answer at quarterback.
In the 2025 season, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, once rivals as quarterbacks for the Pittsburgh Steelers, find themselves competing against each other in a new way – as starting quarterbacks for the New York Jets and Giants respectively, in a city they now share. As they face off during the regular season, they reflect upon their shared past in football, where Fields learned from Wilson's professional approach during their time as teammates, making the scores of their upcoming matches a tense combination of professional rivalry and friendly camaraderie.
During the preseason, Fields strives to continue his impressive 2024 Steelers performance, as he aims to prove his potential as a franchise quarterback in the NFL, while Wilson seeks to continue his impressive career with the Giants. Their first regular season matchup will take place on September 7, with Fields and the Jets hosting Wilson and the Steelers – a game that promises to be as exciting off the field, as it will be on the field.
