Full Breakdown
Jets Scratch Geno Smith, Rookie Cade Klubnik Starts Preseason Opener
8/15/2026, 8:33:33 AM
Background & Context
The New York Jets entered their first preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers without a clear backup quarterback. Historically, the franchise has only three rookie quarterbacks—J.J. Jones (1975), Zach Wilson (2021) and now Cade Klubnik—who have started a preseason opener. The Jets’ depth chart listed veteran Geno Smith as the starter, with rookie fourth-round pick Cade Klubnik positioned behind him, followed by Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe.
Game Summary and Statistics
With Smith ruled out, Klubnik took the first snaps. He completed 5 of 7 passes for 56 yards, leading two scoring drives. The opening drive culminated in a 27-yard field goal by Cade York after a 12-yard pass to Mason Taylor and a third-down conversion to Garrett Wilson. On the second drive, Braelon Allen, returning from a knee injury, capped the effort with a 31-yard rushing touchdown, giving New York a 10-0 lead.
The Buccaneers fielded backups; third-string quarterback Connor Bazelak started, later replaced by undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels, who threw for 10 of 15 passes for 111 yards and added a 1-yard rushing touchdown in the second half. The Buccaneers ultimately won 24-16, with a pick-six by undrafted rookie Ayden Garnes off a Bailey Zappe interception and a late rushing touchdown by Daniels.
Statistically, Klubnik’s 56 passing yards and two scoring drives placed him ahead of Zappe (6 of 10 for 55 yards, two interceptions) and Cook (limited mop-up duty). The Jets’ defense forced a Buccaneers field goal and limited the opponent’s offense to 23 yards on the opening drive.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Aaron Glenn described Smith’s injury as “nothing to be alarmed about,” emphasizing a precautionary approach for the preseason. NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo reported that Smith was dealing with foot soreness, adding that the team would have started him in a regular-season game if the injury were more serious.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Thursday, I told him he wasn’t going to play — precautionary,” — Aaron Glenn, coach
- “I give him a lot of credit going out there and operating the way that he did,” — Aaron Glenn, coach
- “Obviously, I’m not the biggest guy in the world,” — Ayden Garnes
On-the-Ground Reports
Klubnik expressed confidence before his first series, saying he was “excited” and ready to step in “eight to ten plays earlier” than expected.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the nature of Smith’s injury: some describe it as “foot soreness,” while others refer to an “ankle injury” sustained during joint practice. Neither outlet provided a medical diagnosis, leaving the precise condition unclear. Additionally, while the Jets’ coaching staff highlighted Klubnik’s performance, detailed evaluations of his long-term prospects at the quarterback position remain absent from the available reports.
