Geno Smith Shines in Preseason Debut
It took just one drive for the atmosphere around Geno Smith to shift significantly.
After sitting out the preseason opener due to an ankle issue, he finally got the chance to play during the Jets’ 17-0 victory over the Steelers in Pittsburgh.
Given some worries that emerged during a less-than-stellar training camp, he delivered a flawless performance.
Smith completed 7 of 7 passes for 65 yards in his only drive, wrapping it up with a 13-yard touchdown toss to Jelani Woods.
Now, instead of lingering doubts, there’s a renewed sense of optimism.
“I have a good vision for where we’re gonna be,” said right guard Joe Tippmann. “We’re definitely not there yet, but seeing Geno in-game, it really got me excited about our potential. His composure, the way he carries himself in the huddle—it’s impressive. I believe it all comes from his experiences in the league, through the ups and downs in his career. It makes me really excited for this offense.”
During his drive, Smith found six different receivers and converted two crucial third downs.
“It was exciting watching him out there, throwing the ball well,” tight end Mason Taylor mentioned. “I think he did a fantastic job.”
“He has a strong leadership presence. He demands a lot because he knows what he wants. That’s a great quality in a quarterback. He really motivates us, especially on third downs when we need those conversions—he’s always pumping us up and making sure we’re on the same page.”
Smith’s leadership stood out to his teammates just as much as his actual on-field production.
Entering his 13th season in the league, his experience was a key factor the Jets considered when they signed him this past offseason, hoping to finally establish some stability at the quarterback position.
Leading a huddle in practice is one thing. Actually doing it in a game is something else entirely.
“I think he brings a calming presence,” Tippmann shared. “You can just tell he knows what he’s doing, which is reassuring for us. He can execute every play, and even if a play breaks down, he has the ability to make something positive out of it, whether it’s just a couple of yards or a touchdown like Jelani’s.”
Taylor added, “I’m really taking in his experience and wisdom and trying to apply that to my game. He’s a veteran we can trust; he’s the leader of our offense, and everything goes through him.”
For now, Smith’s performance was not only perfect in the statistics but also reassuring in the huddle—overall, there’s a sense that his trajectory is looking up.
Additionally, the Jets made some roster moves, signing DE Anthony Dunn, RB Dominic Richardson, and S Tanner Wall. They waived/injured WR Caullin Lacy, RB Sam Scott, and Edge Nathan Voorhis.
