The Geno Smith-Cade Klubnick mentoring so far
New York Jets quarterback Cade Klubnik walks off the field after a preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Aug. 14, 2026. Credit: AP/Seth Wenig
Rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik led two scoring drives in his only two series of preseason action last week. He may get more opportunities to lead the offense on Friday in Pittsburgh whether Geno Smith (ankle) plays or not.
The Jets are grooming Klubnik to be Smith’s primary backup as of now. Klubnik has shown the ability to handle the workload. Smith said he’s there for Klubnik if and when he needs help.
“I wouldn't say guide him, but my job is definitely to help all the guys and to help my teammates get better,” Smith said. “I feel like Cade has done a tremendous job since Day 1 at picking up the offense and going out there and executing and learning with every rep.
“We talk a lot in meetings, we talk a lot on the field, and when he asks for my insight, I'm always willing to share it with him. He's done a great job and he asks all the right questions. I think, as a quarterback, you have to learn through experience and I think that's something that he's gaining right now.”
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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