Justin Fields has been a prominent figure in the NFL landscape for years, capturing the attention of football enthusiasts since his high school days. From his recruitment to the Pittsburgh Steelers, every step of his journey has been closely followed. The past year has been particularly transformative for the dual-threat quarterback, marked by a signed deal with Reebok, a change of teams, and a revamped diet. These changes reflect the evolution of a 25-year-old athlete establishing himself in both the league and the sneaker industry.
Fields' Partnership with Reebok and Community Engagement
Recently, Fields participated in a community event in Miami with Reebok and Champs Sports, providing a $25,000 donation to the Falcons Touchdown Club and their athletics program through the Justin Fields Foundation. Reflecting on his partnership with Reebok, Fields emphasized the strong relationships he has built with the brand, appreciating their support for his community service endeavors, including youth camps and providing boots to the homeless. He expressed excitement about working with prominent figures like Shaq and Allen Iverson, considering it a "dream come true."
During the community event, Fields interacted with high school football teams, participated in a Q&A session, and took pictures with the students. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to positively impact the community and appreciated Reebok's support in making such events possible.
The arrival of Reebok packages is always a welcome sight for Fields, as he enjoys repping the brand's shoes, clothes, and sports apparel. Among his favorite Reebok sneakers for the spring and summer are the Reebok FloatZig 1, which he finds comfortable and balanced for walking and running, activities he incorporated into his offseason training.
Offseason and OTAs Training Regimen
With his move to Pittsburgh, Fields is working harder than ever this offseason. He provided a glimpse into his typical training day, which varies between the offseason and Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
Read also: The Diet and Workout of Justin Jefferson
During the offseason, Fields typically wakes up around 8:00 AM, prepares breakfast, and heads to throwing practice at 9:30 AM. A lifting session follows at 11:00 AM, with a run incorporated on some days. After lifting, he engages in contrast therapy, alternating between the sauna and cold tub.
During OTAs, his day starts earlier, waking up at 6:45 AM and arriving at the team facility by 7:15 AM. He begins with a steam room session, followed by meetings for about an hour and a half, and then on-field activities. While the days are currently shorter, the intensity is gradually increasing.
Dietary Transformation: From Vegan to Incorporating Meat
Fields has recently made significant changes to his diet. Previously a vegan and pescetarian, he has started incorporating more meat into his meals after consulting with a well-built individual at his gym in Florida.
In the offseason, his daily diet typically consists of eggs and fruit for breakfast, followed by a protein shake with eight ounces of ground turkey and one cup of white rice after his workout. Dinner usually includes salmon and a side salad, with yogurt and granola for dessert. Fields prefers consistency in his diet and tends to eat the same meals regularly.
Since joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, Fields has a personal chef who prepares his meals throughout the week, providing more variety in his diet.
Read also: Inside Justin Thomas's Training Regimen
Embracing a Plant-Based Diet: Fields' Previous Vegan Journey
Earlier in his career, Fields adopted a plant-based diet, which he described as "one of the best things I could do for my body." He noticed improvements in his body and recovery, making the transition feel natural. When asked for advice for those considering a similar change, he recommended simply "going for it."
During his time at Ohio State, Fields' co-offensive coordinator, Kevin Wilson, noted that Fields transitioned to a vegan diet during the offseason to become leaner and take better care of himself. Wilson mentioned that the team's nutritional staff prepared separate training table meals for Fields and other players practicing veganism.
Fields himself stated that going plant-based helped him fight inflammation and shorten his recovery time, which surprised both him and his trainers. He also mentioned that he was able to maintain a similar diet to what he followed in college, as quarterbacks do not require as much strength as other positions.
Plant-Based Diet Benefits and Examples
Several NFL players have credited a vegan diet for improving their performance, including Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, and Cam Newton. According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, plant-based diets offer several benefits for athletes:
- Anti-inflammatory effect: Plant-based diets can aid in recovery from injury and improve performance.
- Improved blood flow: The low-saturated fat content promotes healthy blood flow, delivering more oxygen to muscles and enhancing athletic performance.
- High in antioxidants: Vegan diets tend to be rich in antioxidants, which reduce muscle fatigue and improve performance.
- Reduced body fat: Lower body fat percentages increase oxygen intake and improve athletic endurance.
Daily Plant-Based Meal Examples
During his plant-based phase, Fields' typical daily meals included avocado toast for breakfast, an açaí bowl after working out, and various options for lunch and dinner, with a preference for eating earlier in the evening. He also enjoys plant-based treats like Trü Frü chocolate strawberries and KIND plant-based ice cream bars.
Read also: From Boy Wonder to Muscular Man
Some of his favorite vegan spots in Chicago include Can't Believe It's Not Meat, where he enjoys their flavorful plant-based offerings.
Game Day Routine
On game days, Fields' routine varies depending on the game time. He typically arrives at the stadium about four hours before kickoff, prepares himself mentally and physically, reviews notes, and warms up his body. He emphasizes the importance of mental preparation throughout the week, allowing him to enter game mode with confidence.
Advice for Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet
Fields advises those looking to eliminate meat from their diets to "just go for it." While the initial weeks may be challenging, he believes it becomes easier with time. He suggests that individuals can gradually transition by incorporating plant-based meals during the week and allowing for cheat meals on the weekend. Ultimately, he emphasizes finding the approach that works best for each individual.
Fields' Commitment to Plant-Based Eating
Fields' commitment to plant-based eating stems from a 28-day challenge he undertook with his family in 2020. He quickly noticed a positive impact on his performance and decided to continue the diet. He became more mindful of his food choices, eliminating late-night fast food from his options.
Former NFL linebacker Derrick Morgan also adopted a plant-based diet after struggling with weight issues and chronic inflammation. He experienced improvements in his energy levels, sleep quality, and mental clarity within weeks of making the switch.
Fields' Go-To Plant-Based Foods
Fields relies on specific foods to fuel his performance and maintain his energy levels. One of his favorite pre-workout meals is oats with fruits, seeds, and nut butter, which he can easily customize based on his preferences. After training or games, he prefers a protein shake, such as OWYN Pro Elite High Protein Shakes. For a full meal, he often opts for Beyond Burgers.
He appreciates the positive impact of his plant-based regimen on his stomach and energy levels. While he acknowledges that plant-based diets are not common in the NFL, he believes it is achievable. He enjoys Chipotle bowls and buffalo cauliflower as convenient and accessible options. He also looks forward to incorporating pizza into his diet and explores plant-based alternatives.
Balancing Training, Games, and Plant-Based Advocacy
While balancing training, games, and sleep, Fields actively promotes the plant-based lifestyle through his social media partnerships. VegNews supports his commitment to plant-based living and recommends products that align with his values.