Unexpected Bench Warmers
The Jets preseason opener turned into a surprise for everyone watching Friday night. Geno Smith, the man expected to lead the offense, did not play due to foot soreness. This injury happened during joint practices with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier in the week. Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed the decision right after the team lost 24-16 to the Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium. Glenn said the injury is just “sore” and that Smith is day-to-day. He added, “It’s nothing to be alarmed about,” per ESPN NFL Dallas. The coach made the call on Thursday to keep Smith out, even though the quarterback practiced without missing reps on Wednesday. Smith had been eager to make his debut, but the team chose caution over risk.
This news hits hard for fans who hoped to see the veteran start right away. The Jets traded for Smith in March, giving up a sixth-round pick to get him back from the Raiders. He was a second-round pick for New York in 2013 and played there until 2016. Now, he faces a minor setback right before the regular season starts on September 13. The team does not have a seasoned backup ready to go, which makes this timing tricky. General manager Darren Mougey might still try to trade for a veteran before the season begins. But for now, the Jets have to rely on their young options.
Rookie Steps Into the Spotlight
With Smith on the sideline, rookie Cade Klubnik took the reins as the starting quarterback. This moment was historic for the franchise. According to reports, Klubnik joined J.J. Jones from 1975 and Zach Wilson from 2021 as the only rookies to start a preseason opener in team history. The fourth-round pick from Clemson had never taken a practice snap with the starters before Friday. Yet, he looked ready for the big stage. A field goal and a touchdown were delivered by the starting offense he commanded in merely two series. That touchdown came on a 31-yard run by Braelon Allen. Against the Buccaneers’ reserves, Klubnik threw for 56 yards, completing five of his seven attempts.
Two of his completions went to star receiver Garrett Wilson, who made a twisting catch in mid-air for a 21-yard gain. Klubnik showed he could adjust quickly to the live game action. He told reporters, “Although I’m a young player, I’m poised,” per ESPN NFL Dallas. “I don’t get flustered by big games and big moments,” he stated as well. Smith’s deputy position was bolstered by his showing, which strengthened his bid to secure the role. The Jets have Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook as other backups, but Klubnik clearly made his mark. Glenn noted that Klubnik did make some mistakes, but the coach was happy with how he operated.
The Jets face a clear challenge in the coming days. Smith needs to heal fast so he can get back to work. The team cannot afford to lose their starting quarterback for long. Glenn said Smith is day-to-day, meaning he could return soon if the foot feels better. The injury occurred on Wednesday, and the team is watching it closely. If Smith misses more time, the rookie will need to keep performing well. The pressure is on to show he can handle the NFL speed. The Jets have a short window to get their offense running smoothly before the regular season.
Fans will watch closely to see if the team brings in a veteran backup. It is still possible they will make a move before September 13.
