Former Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields talks reunion with Garrett Wilson: Buckeye Breakfast
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, former Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields has been making headlines for his performance with the Chicago Bears. But recently, his relationship with one former teammate, Garrett Wilson, has been the center of attention. The two Ohio State alumni, both of whom played pivotal roles in the Buckeyes’ successful campaigns, are now reuniting in the NFL, and Fields has reflected on how their shared history has influenced their current bond and their approach to professional football. This reunion is more than just about on-field chemistry—it’s a powerful reminder of what they accomplished together in Columbus and how their time as Buckeyes shaped them both.
The journey that Fields and Wilson took from the Ohio State football program to the NFL is a story about growth, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles. When Fields transferred to Ohio State, he was seen as one of the brightest young quarterbacks in the country. His arrival in Columbus, after spending a year at Georgia, changed the trajectory of the Buckeyes’ offense and helped elevate their program to national championship contention. That season, Fields was a dynamic force for the Buckeyes, leading them to the College Football Playoff and gaining national attention for his leadership and elite skill set.
Garrett Wilson, on the other hand, was a key component of the Buckeyes’ receiving corps during that time. Wilson, known for his incredible route running and ability to make spectacular catches, was one of Fields’ top targets and a major weapon for Ohio State. The duo’s connection on the field was undeniable. Fields found in Wilson a receiver he could rely on for crucial catches in clutch moments, while Wilson was able to showcase his exceptional ability to make plays in big games.
Now, as the two have transitioned to professional football, the connection they built at Ohio State is still very much alive. Fields, now the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears, has spent the offseason focusing on refining his game, looking for ways to elevate his play even further. Wilson, who was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly become one of the league’s most promising wide receivers. Despite playing for different teams, the friendship and bond between these two former Buckeyes continue to thrive.
At a recent Buckeye Breakfast event, Fields reflected on his reunion with Wilson and what it means to have him in the NFL. Their relationship, he admitted, extends far beyond just football. “Garrett and I spent a lot of time together at Ohio State,” Fields said. “It wasn’t just about the games on Saturdays. We pushed each other every day in practice, whether it was watching film, running routes, or just talking about the game. That kind of bond doesn’t go away. When I see him out there in the NFL doing his thing, it’s just a reminder of how hard we worked together and how much we both wanted to succeed.”
For Wilson, the feeling is mutual. He recognizes the importance of Fields’ leadership during their time at Ohio State, and he has credited his former quarterback with helping him evolve as a player. “Justin has always been one of those guys who can make any throw, no matter what the situation is,” Wilson said. “And he’s a leader. Even when things didn’t go perfectly, he was always calm, always focused, and that rubbed off on me. I learned so much from him, and now that we’re both in the league, it’s awesome to see where we both are. I’m really proud of how far we’ve come since our time at Ohio State.”
Their time together at Ohio State was pivotal not just for their individual careers but for the success of the Buckeyes’ offense. Fields, as the field general, was tasked with distributing the ball to an incredible group of playmakers, with Wilson being one of his top targets. The chemistry between the two was evident, and it paid off during some of Ohio State’s biggest games. One of the most memorable moments of their Buckeye careers came during the 2020 season, when Ohio State was ranked among the top teams in the country. Fields and Wilson formed one of the most potent quarterback-wide receiver duos in college football, and their performances were key in Ohio State’s march to the College Football Playoff.
Fields’ ability to connect with Wilson on deep passes, short routes, and everything in between made Ohio State’s offense one of the most dynamic in the country. Their connection was not just physical; it was mental as well. The two knew each other’s tendencies and could anticipate where the other was going to be on the field. That kind of synergy is rare and difficult to develop, but Fields and Wilson did it over countless hours of practice and preparation.
As Fields and Wilson made the jump to the NFL, their respective paths diverged, but their relationship remained as strong as ever. Fields was drafted by the Chicago Bears, where he was expected to help revitalize the team’s struggling offense. Meanwhile, Wilson was picked by the New York Jets, where he quickly became one of the team’s most exciting offensive weapons. Both players have faced challenges early in their professional careers, but they have continued to show the promise that made them stars at Ohio State.
For Fields, the adjustment to the NFL has been both exciting and challenging. As a rookie, he was tasked with leading a Bears offense that had struggled for years, and it was clear that Fields had the potential to be the team’s franchise quarterback. However, like many young quarterbacks, he faced growing pains in his early years. Despite the challenges, Fields has shown remarkable growth, particularly in his ability to make plays with his legs and extend the play. His dual-threat capability has made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch in the league, and he continues to work on refining his passing skills to become a more complete player.
Wilson, meanwhile, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top young wide receivers in the NFL. His ability to separate from defenders and make spectacular catches has been on display throughout his career. Wilson’s route-running skills and ability to create separation have made him a favorite target for Jets quarterbacks, and he has already become one of the team’s most consistent playmakers. He has quickly established himself as a top talent in a deep receiver class and is poised to be a key part of the Jets’ offensive future.
Looking ahead, both Fields and Wilson have bright futures in the NFL. Their time together at Ohio State helped shape their professional careers, and they are both determined to continue their success at the next level. For Fields, the goal is to develop into one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, and he has the work ethic and tools to do just that. For Wilson, the focus is on becoming one of the league’s top wide receivers and building on his already impressive start.
The reunion between Fields and Wilson in the NFL is a reminder of the special bond they share, both as teammates and as friends. Their time together at Ohio State will always be a cherished memory for both players, and as they continue to make their mark in the NFL, they can look back on their Buckeye days with pride.
As the NFL season progresses and both Fields and Wilson continue to grow in their respective roles, fans of Ohio State football will be watching closely. The connection that these two players developed during their time at Ohio State is something special, and it’s clear that the bond they formed on and off the field will continue to pay dividends as they navigate their NFL careers. It’s a testament to the power of teamwork, leadership, and dedication, and as both players continue to thrive in the league, their success will always be a reflection of the foundation they built together at Ohio State.
