Sportsnaut
The New York Jets kick off their 2025 preseason schedule, and the Aaron Glenn era, when they visit the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Saturday.
Though the game doesn’t count, there are impressions to make, jobs to be won. And Glenn said it’ll be special to lead the Jets on to the field for the first time as coach, 31 years after the former cornerback was their first-round pick in the 1994 NFL Draft.
Glenn said he wants to win “every time we hit the grass.” But a preseason W in early August is not the most important thing here for the Jets.
Let’s examine three key storylines to follow when the Jets visit the Packers in their preseason opener Saturday.
Related: New York Jets Schedule Predictions 2025: Game by Game Jets Predictions
In a distinct shift from recent years, the Jets plan to have most of their starters play in the first preseason game. That includes their new starting quarterback Justin Fields.
It’s a risky move by Glenn, one that has massive implications should Fields or another key player get injured. In fact, the last time the Jets played their QB1 in the preseason opener, Zach Wilson sustained a knee injury and missed the first three games of the regular season in 2022.
But Glenn didn’t sound scared Thursday when he declared that the starters will play.
“We’re playing,” the coach stated emphatically. “I can’t tell you how much the guys will play. That’s going to factor on how the game goes. But, we’re playing.”
When pushed by reporters, he quickly responded, “I want our guys to play. That’s the reason.”
routine play for @GarrettWilson_V and @justnfields pic.twitter.com/i6yNz4RU45
— New York Jets (@nyjets) August 7, 2025
OK then. This means all eyes will be on Fields, who’s had an inconsistent training camp so far. He may only play a series or two at most, but if Fields is decisive, shows a firm grasp of the offense, makes quick decisions (something he’s struggled with his entire four-year career), moves the ball downfield, and doesn’t get injured, well, that’ll be a big win for the Jets no matter the final score.
The offense should have nine of its 11 starters available to play Saturday. Left guard John Simpson (back) and rookie tight end Mason Taylor (high ankle sprain) are out. But there’ll be enough regulars out there building continuity with Fields and new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, a first time play caller in the NFL.
“I think we need to at least see the field each and every game,” Fields explained. “I think that will be good for our team. It will be good for Tanner with the in-game stuff. It will be good for me and the guys on offense. I know some guys, they sit out the whole preseason, but I don’t think that’s the case for us. Just because of the new team,...
