Geno Smith is not expected to play in the New York Jets’ preseason finale against the New York Giants on Friday night.
The Jets reportedly plan to rest their veteran starting quarterback and use the matchup to evaluate their backups before finalizing the regular-season roster. Smith remains New York’s clear starting quarterback heading into Week 1.
Why Is Geno Smith Sitting Out?
Smith’s absence appears to be a precautionary decision rather than an indication of a new injury or a change to the Jets’ quarterback hierarchy.
The 35-year-old missed the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers because of ankle soreness. He returned for the Jets’ second preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and delivered an excellent performance, completing all seven of his passes for 65 yards and a touchdown.
Having seen Smith direct a successful opening drive, the coaching staff apparently has little left to evaluate before the regular season.
Who Will Start at Quarterback for the Jets?
With Smith sitting out, rookie Cade Klubnik is a leading candidate to start or receive significant playing time against the Giants. The Jets can also use the game to evaluate the rest of their quarterback room as they determine the final depth chart.
Klubnik started the preseason opener while Smith was unavailable and has been competing to secure the backup role.
The Jets had not officially confirmed the complete quarterback rotation at the time of publication.
Is Geno Smith Still the Jets’ Regular-Season Starter?
Yes. Smith remains the Jets’ unquestioned starting quarterback for the 2026 regular season.
His scheduled absence against the Giants should not be interpreted as a benching or a sign that the starting job is in jeopardy. Resting an established starter during the final preseason game is common, particularly when the team wants to protect him from injury and evaluate younger players.
Jets vs. Giants Game Information
The Jets host the Giants at MetLife Stadium in their final game of the 2026 preseason.
- Matchup: New York Giants at New York Jets
- Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Venue: MetLife Stadium
- Local Jets broadcast: WCBS
Bottom Line
Geno Smith will reportedly not start or play against the Giants in the Jets’ preseason finale. The decision is expected to give New York’s backup quarterbacks more opportunities and protect Smith ahead of Week 1.
Smith remains the Jets’ regular-season QB1.
This article reflects reporting available before kickoff. Preseason availability and quarterback rotations can change close to game time.