While they’re not ready to admit the selection of Zach Wilson at No. 2 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft was a mistake, the New York Jets are expected to be heavy players in the quarterback market this offseason. That could even potentially include a reunion with Geno Smith, originally drafted by the Jets with the 39th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Smith, of course, didn’t have much success with the Jets, going 12-18 across four seasons, and he then bounced around to the Giants, the Chargers, and in 2020, signing with the Seahawks.
His patience in Seattle, biding his time while making just three starts across two seasons as Russell Wilson‘s backup, finally paid off this past season. Smith led the NFL with a 69.8% completion rate while becoming a Pro Bowl QB for the first time in his career.
Now, Smith is set to be rewarded as he’s hitting free agency after the best year of his football life. With the Jets also seeking a veteran solution at QB, could the two join forces once again? The Jets have a roster built to win, and may just be a signal-caller away.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Jets are “exploring the idea of bringing Geno Smith back” this offseason. Yet, it isn’t expected to be that easy.
We also know the Seahawks will be trying to retain their starting QB and could always use the franchise tag if negotiations take a bad turn.
While Smith could very well become an option, the Jets are still believed to be prioritizing Aaron Rodgers, have visited with Derek Carr, and could also get involved in Jimmy Garoppolo, Ryan Tannehill, and even their cross-town rivals’ QB Daniel Jones as Breer reports.
Basically, the Jets are keeping their options open, knowing how quickly they may have to pivot to their backup plan.
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