The NY Jets hit the field in full pads on July 28 as QB Justin Fields fully returns. Coach Aaron Glenn demands physicality, kicking off a fierce roster battle.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The sound of pads popping echoed through Florham Park on Monday, signaling the true start of the New York Jets' 2025 training camp. As if on cue, the team's most important player, quarterback Justin Fields, made his full return to 11-on-11 drills. With a clear message of physicality from Head Coach Aaron Glenn and a healthy QB1 taking the snaps, the battle for the final 53-man roster just got real.
We’re going to find out who wants it the most when the pads come on.
First-year Head Coach Aaron Glenn didn't mince words as his team strapped on the pads for the first time. His message was simple and direct: it's time to compete. 'We’re going to find out who wants it the most when the pads come on,' Glenn told the team. This sets a demanding tone for a franchise looking to forge a new, tougher identity. For a team that currently sits atop the AFC East (by virtue of a 0-0 record), establishing this physical mindset early is paramount to turning preseason hype into regular-season wins.
The biggest sigh of relief for Jets fans came from the offense, as Justin Fields was a full participant in team drills. After being eased in, seeing QB1 back in the huddle and running the full offense is a massive step forward. His ability to build chemistry with his receivers and test the timing of the offensive scheme is critical. His return energizes the entire unit and gives a real glimpse into what the 2025 Jets offense could look like.
While Fields orchestrates the offense, the new building blocks are already making a strong impression. First-round tackle Armand Membou is earning praise for his athleticism and solid play on the left side, a welcome sight for an offensive line in need of stability. Meanwhile, second-round tight end Mason Taylor is quickly becoming a go-to target, particularly in red zone situations. These early returns on the 2025 draft class are a huge positive, suggesting GM Darren Mougey's first draft may be a foundational one.
It wasn't all straightforward progress on Monday. The team made a pair of roster moves, claiming defensive back Ryan Cooper to add secondary depth while releasing rookie punter Kai Kroeger. While the Cooper addition is a solid depth move, the release of Kroeger is telling. It leaves the Jets with only one punter in camp and shines a bright light on the team's biggest uncertainty: special teams. Finding consistency in the kicking and punting game remains a top priority, and the search for a reliable leg is clearly still ongoing.
With Fields back, the rookies impressing, and the pads finally cracking, the Jets' training camp has officially hit its stride. The energy is palpable, but so are the questions, particularly on special teams. The coming days will be crucial as we see who rises to Coach Glenn's challenge and who solidifies their place on a team desperate to end the NFL's longest playoff drought. The competition is on, and we'll be watching every snap.
