Justin Fields, the former quarterback at Ohio State, talks about his reunion with Garrett Wilson at Buckeye Breakfast.

The Buckeye Breakfast, an annual event that gathers Ohio State alumni, current players, and fans alike, is known for its spirited atmosphere and nostalgic reflections on the school’s football legacy. This year, however, the event took on a special significance as former Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields took the stage alongside wide receiver Garrett Wilson, his former teammate and one of the standout players during Fields’ time at the university. Their reunion was met with excitement from fans who remember the electric chemistry between the two players on the field. But beyond the highlights and touchdowns, Fields’ words at the Buckeye Breakfast provided insight into their personal bond, the impact of their time together at Ohio State, and the road ahead as professionals in the NFL.

The Historic Partnership at Ohio State

When Justin Fields transferred to Ohio State from the University of Georgia in 2019, he quickly became the face of the program, leading the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff and a Big Ten Championship in his first season as the starting quarterback. In Fields, Ohio State had a dynamic quarterback capable of making every throw and showcasing his athleticism with his legs. But it wasn’t just his physical gifts that made Fields special; it was his ability to elevate those around him, especially Garrett Wilson.

Garrett Wilson, a five-star recruit who joined Ohio State as part of the 2019 recruiting class, was a receiver with an uncanny ability to make plays on the field. His blend of speed, route running, and natural hands made him a perfect complement to Fields’ skill set. Over the course of their two seasons together (2019-2020), the Fields-Wilson connection flourished. Fields relied on Wilson to make plays when the stakes were highest, and Wilson frequently delivered, whether on contested catches or after the catch with his explosive ability to gain yards. Fields and Wilson’s on-field chemistry was undeniable, and their connection helped elevate Ohio State’s offense to national prominence.

Fields and Wilson shared a unique understanding of each other’s strengths. Wilson’s precise route running allowed Fields to place the ball in ideal spots, while Fields’ mobility in the pocket and ability to extend plays gave Wilson more time to break free downfield. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with, helping the Buckeyes reach the national title game in 2020.

Justin Fields Reflects on Their Time Together

At the Buckeye Breakfast, Fields shared heartfelt reflections on his time with Wilson at Ohio State. It was clear from his words that their bond transcended football; they were more than just teammates, they were friends. Fields spoke fondly of Wilson’s work ethic, leadership, and the trust they had in each other. Fields recalled countless hours in the film room together, breaking down opposing defenses and preparing for games, but also the lighter moments that helped build their friendship off the field.

“Garrett’s one of those guys you just know is always going to show up when you need him. He’s got that mindset, that mentality, that not a lot of people have,” Fields said, looking over at Wilson with a smile. “We spent a lot of time working on timing and chemistry, and you could tell that it was going to pay off. But it wasn’t just the plays we made on the field. It was that bond, that trust we built, that made everything click.”

Fields’ praise for Wilson was mutual. The young receiver admitted that playing alongside Fields made his own transition to college football smoother, giving him the confidence that they could accomplish great things together. Wilson acknowledged that Fields’ leadership and poise in tough situations helped the entire team, especially in moments of adversity. The duo’s ability to step up in big games—like the 2020 Big Ten Championship against Northwestern, where Fields threw for over 300 yards and four touchdowns—was indicative of their seamless chemistry.

“The connection was instant,” Wilson said at the event. “We put in the work together, and we just understood how each other thought. Justin knew where I’d be on every route, and I knew where the ball was going to be. It was special to be a part of that.”

The NFL Journey: From Ohio State to the Pros

Both Fields and Wilson have since moved on to the NFL, and their professional careers have been closely followed by Ohio State fans. Fields, selected by the Chicago Bears with the 11th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has had a promising start to his career as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback. His time at Ohio State prepared him well for the challenges of the NFL, as he had faced high-level defenses in the Big Ten and national competitions. However, Fields’ early years in the NFL have also presented challenges, particularly with the Chicago Bears’ rebuilding phase and the difficulties of developing a young quarterback in a high-pressure environment.

Wilson, on the other hand, was drafted by the New York Jets as the 10th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. As a rookie, Wilson faced the challenge of adjusting to the speed and complexity of the professional game but also showcased his elite receiving talent. His natural ability to separate from defenders, make contested catches, and create explosive plays made him an instant impact player for the Jets. As a key target for quarterback Zach Wilson, Garrett Wilson quickly became the focal point of New York’s passing attack, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his first year.

At the Buckeye Breakfast, both Fields and Wilson expressed excitement about their professional futures, but also about the potential of a reunion in the NFL. Fields, who has yet to find his rhythm in Chicago, spoke about his desire to continue growing as a quarterback, while Wilson shared his optimism for the Jets’ future, particularly after the team’s acquisition of future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers in 2023. While both are facing different paths in their professional journeys, the bond they share from their time at Ohio State remains strong, and there is always the possibility that their paths could cross again on an NFL field.

“I’m excited about the future,” Fields said during the breakfast, “but it’s always special to think back to those days with Garrett. There’s a certain level of understanding we had on the field, and it’s something that’s hard to replicate. You never know what could happen in the NFL, but I wouldn’t be mad if we got a chance to play together again.”

Wilson echoed similar sentiments, noting that he was eager to see Fields develop into the star everyone knew he could be in the NFL. He also spoke about the shared pride they both felt in representing Ohio State on the biggest stage in football. “We’re both proud of where we came from,” Wilson said. “Ohio State shaped us, and we’re always going to have that bond.”

The Importance of Their Ohio State Experience

For both Fields and Wilson, their time at Ohio State wasn’t just about individual success. It was about learning how to thrive in a system that demanded excellence and teamwork. Ohio State, under head coach Ryan Day, places an emphasis on developing players not only physically but mentally as well, preparing them for the next level. Fields and Wilson each credited their time at the university with helping them develop the maturity and work ethic needed to succeed in the NFL.

“Ohio State is a place that teaches you more than just football,” Fields said. “It teaches you discipline, responsibility, and how to handle pressure. The way Coach Day and the staff prepare you is second to none, and it definitely set us up for success at the next level.”

Wilson also highlighted the competitive nature of Ohio State football, which pushed him to improve every day. “At Ohio State, we were always surrounded by elite talent. It forced me to get better, and I think that helped me once I got to the NFL. You never know what level you’re going to be at until you face the best. And at Ohio State, we faced the best every day in practice.”

A Legacy That Will Last

As Fields and Wilson look toward their NFL futures, the legacy they built together at Ohio State is one that will be remembered by Buckeye fans for years to come. The combination of Fields’ dynamic playmaking ability and Wilson’s elite receiving talent made them one of the most exciting duos in college football during their time at Ohio State. Their accomplishments were a testament to their hard work, chemistry, and shared goal of bringing success to the Buckeyes.

The reunion at Buckeye Breakfast served as a reminder of the lasting impact their partnership had on Ohio State football. Fans will always remember their thrilling performances, and for Fields and Wilson, it was a chance to reflect on the foundation they built together before they moved on to the next chapter in their football careers.

Both players have the potential to become stars in the NFL, and as they continue to grow and develop, they will undoubtedly carry the lessons they learned at Ohio State with them. Whether or not they ever have the chance to reunite on the field, their bond will remain unbreakable, and their time at Ohio State will always be a cherished part of their legacy.

In conclusion, Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson’s reunion at Buckeye Breakfast was more than just a celebration of their time together at Ohio State. It was a testament to their friendship, their shared experiences, and the bright futures they have ahead in the NFL. Their partnership on the field was one of the most exciting in recent Ohio State history, and it continues to inspire Buckeye fans who continue to follow their journeys as professional football players.