The New York Jets have made headlines by bringing back quarterback Geno Smith in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, involving late-round draft picks. This marks Smith's return to the Jets, the team that originally drafted him in the second round back in 2013.
Smith expressed his feelings about the move in a message to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, saying, “Complete full circle moment back to where it all began. I’m excited to connect with my new teammates and coaches and everyone in the building as well as build a new relationship with the fan base and community.”
Smith's journey has been quite the rollercoaster. After a career revival with the Seattle Seahawks, his stint with the Raiders didn't pan out as hoped. He struggled statistically, and the Raiders ended up with the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, where they’re expected to select Indiana's Fernando Mendoza.
Meanwhile, the Jets have had their own quarterback woes, with the Justin Fields experiment falling short. Holding the second overall pick in the draft, the Jets face a class not brimming with quarterback talent beyond Mendoza. This situation positions Smith as the likely starter as the season kicks off.
Jets fans are hopeful that Smith can channel the form he showed in Seattle, leaving his Las Vegas struggles behind. The 2026 season is set to begin in September, and all eyes will be on Smith as he aims to lead the Jets with a fresh start.