Quarterback has been a position of need for the New York Jets for years. The franchise has cycled through multiple starting quarterbacks without finding a long-term answer.
Last season, they hoped Justin Fields could provide a spark under center, but he couldn't quite take command of the offense. The team previously turned to Aaron Rodgers in 2023; however, injuries and a disappointing season prevented that move from working out.
To address this issue, the Jets signed Geno Smith to a one-year deal and drafted Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
ESPN Identifies Jets’ Biggest Weakness
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Despite those additions, ESPN writer Mike Clay believes that the quarterback position remains the Jets' biggest weakness on the roster heading into the 2026 NFL season.
“Quarterback. The Jets' roster is improved, but that might not matter much if they don't get better quarterback play. Geno Smith is the next man up,” Clay wrote. “While he's clearly not the long-term answer at 35 years old, it's possible he can hold down the fort if he's cleared of off-field battery allegations. Smith struggled badly with the Raiders last season (27th among 28 qualified QBs in QBR) but was quite effective during his three seasons as the starter in Seattle (2022-24). Fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik figures to get some runs if Smith stumbles or cannot play.”
The Jets couldn’t generate much offense last season, finishing 29th in total offense (263.6 yards per game), 32nd in passing (140.3 yards per game), and 29th in scoring. Those struggles underscored the Jets' need for improved quarterback play.
Jets improved QB room in 2026
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Heading into the 2026 NFL season, the Jets’ quarterback room will be under a microscope.
New York will be hoping that Geno Smith can provide the stability it has lacked at the position for years and help the offense take a step forward. Smith enjoyed a career renaissance during his three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, and the Jets are counting on him to bring that level of play to New York.
If Geno Smith can return to the level of play he displayed during his time with the Seahawks then the Jets should be far more competitive offensively while giving rookie Cade Klubnik time to develop behind an experienced veteran.
