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

Former Ohio State Quarterback Justin Fields Talks Reunion with Garrett Wilson: Buckeye Breakfast

As the NFL season heats up and the league’s offseason activities begin to take shape, one of the most exciting narratives to emerge is the reunion of two former Ohio State stars—quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver Garrett Wilson. For years, these two athletes dominated college football as teammates at Ohio State University, lighting up the field in the Big Ten with their undeniable chemistry and mutual drive for greatness. Now, as Fields continues to lead the Chicago Bears and Wilson makes waves with the New York Jets, the duo has come full circle, reuniting in the NFL and rekindling the bond that helped make them one of the most electrifying pairings in college football.

The reunion of Fields and Wilson has generated significant buzz among Ohio State fans and NFL enthusiasts alike. As former Buckeyes, both players bring a wealth of experience to their respective teams, and the shared history between them adds a personal dimension to their on-field connection. In a special segment of “Buckeye Breakfast,” an exclusive gathering of Ohio State alumni and supporters, Fields and Wilson discussed their time together at Ohio State, their transition to the NFL, and their hopes for the future as teammates once again—albeit on different teams.

This article delves into the compelling journey of Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson, examining their paths from Ohio State to the NFL, their relationship as former Buckeyes, and their reflections on their time together at one of the most storied football programs in the nation. It also explores their thoughts on reuniting in the NFL and the impact of their shared Ohio State experience on their current careers.

The Ohio State Legacy: Fields and Wilson Together

Before they became NFL stars, Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson were a dynamic duo at Ohio State, where they formed one of the most dangerous quarterback-wide receiver connections in recent memory. Fields, a highly touted recruit out of Georgia, arrived at Ohio State with high expectations and a reputation as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. Wilson, a native of Texas, quickly became one of the most reliable and explosive wide receivers in college football, earning accolades for his route-running, athleticism, and playmaking ability.

During their time at Ohio State, Fields and Wilson built a rapport that was evident both on and off the field. Their connection went beyond the X’s and O’s, with the two athletes developing a deep understanding of each other’s tendencies, strengths, and weaknesses. Fields, known for his strong arm, mobility, and leadership, often relied on Wilson’s ability to make acrobatic catches and create separation from defenders. Wilson, for his part, was more than just a target; he was a crucial playmaker who had the rare ability to turn routine plays into explosive gains.

Together, Fields and Wilson helped lead the Buckeyes to multiple Big Ten titles and playoff appearances, including an appearance in the 2021 College Football Playoff. While Ohio State’s championship aspirations fell short during their tenure, the individual performances of Fields and Wilson were undeniable. Fields, with his ability to throw the ball deep and make plays with his legs, consistently put up impressive statistics, while Wilson’s knack for making big plays at crucial moments made him a go-to option for Fields on third downs and in high-pressure situations.

Off the field, Fields and Wilson shared a camaraderie that went beyond their roles as teammates. Both athletes had a fierce competitive spirit, but they also shared a mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s talents. This bond laid the foundation for their future success, both as individuals and as a duo.

Transitioning to the NFL: Fields and Wilson’s Journey

After their successful college careers, both Fields and Wilson made the jump to the NFL in 2021, entering the draft with high expectations. Fields was selected by the Chicago Bears as the 11th overall pick, while Wilson was drafted by the New York Jets with the 10th overall pick. Despite the fact that their paths diverged in the professional ranks, the bond they built at Ohio State remained intact, and they continued to follow each other’s careers closely.

Fields’ rookie season with the Bears was filled with ups and downs, as he was thrust into a rebuilding franchise with a coaching staff that was still trying to find its identity. Despite the challenges, Fields showed flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his ability to make plays with his legs and arm. He displayed his athleticism and resilience, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. However, as is often the case with young quarterbacks, the lack of a strong supporting cast and consistent offensive line play made Fields’ development a work in progress.

Wilson, on the other hand, made an immediate impact with the Jets in his rookie season, quickly becoming one of the most dynamic and exciting receivers in the league. Wilson’s crisp route running, hands, and ability to stretch the field gave quarterback Zach Wilson (no relation) a reliable target. Despite the Jets’ struggles in 2021, Wilson’s individual performance stood out, and he quickly solidified himself as one of the premier young wide receivers in the NFL.

For Fields, the transition to the NFL was not without its growing pains. But as the 2022 season unfolded, the Bears began to take notice of Fields’ growth and potential. Chicago’s offense, designed around Fields’ skill set, showcased his unique abilities as a dual-threat quarterback. Fields became known for his explosive plays in the running game, setting records for rushing yards by a quarterback in a single season. His connection with the Bears’ receiving corps, though still in its early stages, began to show promise.

Wilson, meanwhile, continued to impress in New York, even though the Jets were still in the midst of a rebuilding phase. He formed a solid relationship with his quarterbacks, including Zach Wilson and later Mike White, and consistently flashed his elite playmaking ability. The Jets’ offensive scheme, which leaned heavily on Wilson’s ability to create separation and make big catches, allowed him to develop into one of the league’s premier receiving threats.

Despite their separate paths in the NFL, both Fields and Wilson remained close, often catching up during the offseason and supporting each other’s journeys. Their friendship and shared experience at Ohio State made them kindred spirits in the world of professional football, and their continued success as young NFL players further cemented their bond.

The Reunion: Buckeye Breakfast

The occasion that brought Fields and Wilson together for a special reunion was the annual “Buckeye Breakfast,” a gathering of former Ohio State athletes and alumni. This event, held every year during the NFL offseason, provides an opportunity for former Buckeyes to reconnect with one another, reminisce about their time at Ohio State, and celebrate the legacy of one of the most successful football programs in college history.

At this year’s event, Fields and Wilson took the stage together, where they shared stories of their time in Columbus, discussed their transition to the NFL, and reflected on their enduring friendship. The reunion was a poignant moment for both players, as it allowed them to take a step back from their individual careers and reflect on their shared history.

The conversation began with a look back at their time together at Ohio State. Fields recalled the first time he threw a pass to Wilson in practice, noting how the receiver’s ability to make difficult catches seemed effortless. “Garrett was always a special talent,” Fields said, smiling. “I knew from the moment we started working together that he was going to be a star. He’s the type of player who can make the impossible look easy.”

Wilson, in turn, praised Fields for his leadership and work ethic. “Justin is a competitor, no matter what. He always put the team first, and that made him the kind of quarterback we wanted to play for,” Wilson said. “He has this incredible ability to elevate everyone around him, and that’s something I saw in him when we were at Ohio State and something I continue to see in him now.”

The two former teammates also discussed their adjustment to life in the NFL and how their time at Ohio State prepared them for the challenges of professional football. “Ohio State really gave us both a great foundation,” Fields explained. “Coach Day and the entire staff instilled a sense of discipline and focus that has stuck with me throughout my career. We learned how to handle adversity and stay focused on the goal, and I think that’s what’s kept me going through some tough moments in the NFL.”

Wilson agreed, emphasizing how the Ohio State program’s culture of excellence has shaped his approach to the game. “Ohio State taught me how to be a professional,” Wilson said. “It’s not just about football—it’s about handling your business on and off the field. I’ve taken that mentality to the NFL, and I think it’s helped me grow as a player.”

Despite being on different teams in the NFL, Fields and Wilson both expressed excitement about the possibility of playing against each other in the future. “It’s going to be surreal, no doubt,” Fields said. “But I know one thing—I’ll be ready when we face off. Garrett’s going to give me everything he’s got, and I’ll do the same for him.”

Wilson echoed the sentiment, noting that while the competition would be fierce, the mutual respect between the two would always remain. “It’s going to be a blast,” Wilson said. “At the end of the day, we’re both out there trying to do what we love, and it’s special that we get to do it at the highest level.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Fields and Wilson

As Fields and Wilson continue their respective careers in the NFL, the future looks bright for both players. Fields, now firmly entrenched as the face of the Bears’ franchise, will continue to grow as a dual-threat quarterback, with the potential to lead Chicago to sustained success. His ability to develop chemistry with his receiving corps, including adding more weapons to the offense, will be crucial to his progression in the NFL.

Wilson, on the other hand, is poised to become one of the top receivers in the league for years to come. With the Jets continuing to build around quarterback Zach Wilson, the future is promising for the young receiver, who has already proven himself to be one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league.

While their paths may differ, the shared experience at Ohio State will always be a common thread that connects Fields and Wilson. Their bond, both on and off the field, is a testament to the power of teamwork and camaraderie. And as they continue their NFL careers, their legacy as two of the best products to come out of Ohio State will be remembered for years to come.