BREAKING: Geno Smith Ruled Out, Klubnik to Start for Jets
Jets Quarterback Shuffle: Geno Smith Sits, Rookie Cade Klubnik Gets His Chance
What Happened?
The New York Jets had a plan for their preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday night. Head coach Aaron Glenn wanted his starters—the players who usually begin the game—to play. But there’s a big change at the most important position: quarterback.
Important Update
Geno Smith, the Jets’ starting quarterback, will NOT play. He has a sore foot. The team says it’s not serious—he would play if this were a real regular-season game. But for this practice game, they’re being careful.
Who Is Stepping In?
With Smith out, a rookie (first-year player) gets a golden opportunity.
Meet Cade Klubnik
- Draft Status: 4th-round pick (selected in the 4th round of the NFL Draft)
- Depth Chart Position: Listed as the No. 2 quarterback behind Smith
- Big Moment: This will be his first ever NFL game action
- New Role: He will start the game against the Buccaneers
The Rest of the Quarterback Room
The Jets have two other quarterbacks on the roster who will also see playing time:
| Quarterback | Notes |
|---|---|
| Brady Cook | Backup option |
| Bailey Zappe | Experienced backup; has started NFL games before |
Why This Matters (In Simple Terms)
Think of it like a school play:
- The lead actor (Geno Smith) has a minor injury
- The director (Coach Glenn) decides to rest him for the dress rehearsal (preseason game)
- The understudy (Cade Klubnik) gets to perform the lead role for the first time
- Everyone gets to see what the understudy can do!
What to Watch For
- Klubnik’s Debut – How does he handle NFL speed and pressure?
- Play Calling – Will the coaches simplify the offense for the rookie?
- Other QBs – How do Cook and Zappe look when they enter the game?
- Smith’s Return – Expect him back for the regular season (real games that count)
Summary
- Geno Smith (starter) is out with minor foot soreness
- Team says no long-term concern—precautionary only
- Cade Klubnik (rookie, 4th-round pick) will start his first NFL game
- Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe will also play
- This is a preseason game (practice game—doesn’t count in standings)
FAQ
Is Geno Smith seriously injured?
No. The Jets explicitly said they’re not concerned. He would play if this were a regular-season game. They’re just being extra careful in a game that doesn’t count.
Who is Cade Klubnik?
He’s a rookie quarterback the Jets drafted in the 4th round. Before Friday, he had never played in an NFL game. He was listed as the backup (No. 2) behind Smith.
What is a "preseason game"?
Preseason games are practice games played before the real season starts. They don’t count toward wins/losses or playoff standings. Teams use them to evaluate players and get ready.
Will Klubnik start the regular season?
Almost certainly not. Geno Smith is the clear starter. This is just Klubnik’s chance to show what he can do and earn the backup job.
What about the other quarterbacks?
Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe are also on the roster. Zappe has actually started real NFL games before (for the Patriots). They’ll both get playing time after Klubnik.