Why Geno Smith is a viable option for the Jets to mentor a 2027 first-round QB

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – Geno Smith was unfazed by the trade deadline. He wasn’t checking his phone or scrolling social media to see if anything was going on with Smith or the Jets.

Smith’s Tuesday went like this: he got some body work early in the morning, then hit the weight room, spent a few hours game-planning for this week’s opponent, Buffalo, got some more body work and then attended a charity event in the evening to raise money for ALS in support of his former Jets teammate Chris Johnson, who was diagnosed with the disease.

Other than the charity event, that was a typical Tuesday for Smith. He’s a creature of habit and he doesn’t change his process even if his name or the name of other Jets came up in trade rumors.

“I’m focused on the Bills,” Smith said.

This is what offense coordinator Frank Reich was referring to when he described Smith as “laser focused” during one of the many times he praised the veteran quarterback’s professionalism, intelligence and approach. Aaron Glenn said it’s “pretty amazing to watch and have first-hand knowledge” of Smith’s weight-room routine and how he prepares each week.

This season hasn’t gone the way anyone with the Jets (2-7) expected, but Smith has been better than anyone could have imagined. His performance, at the very least, raises the possibility that Smith could lead the Jets’ offense again next season.

There’s a lot of time between now and then, and whoever the Jets’ coach is in 2027 will have a say in that. But Smith has shown that he’s a viable option to remain a Jet and help groom a young quarterback to one day replace him.

The Jets have three first-round picks next year. Their current spots are No. 4 (Indianapolis), No. 6 (Jets) and No. 13 (Cowboys). The Jets will use one of them on a quarterback whether it’s Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker, Notre Dame’s C.J. Carr or another prospect.

Whomever the Jets pick will need someone to show him the NFL ropes. The irony is that the Jets could choose to follow the same path as Smith’s former team, the Raiders.

Las Vegas, and first-year head coach Klint Kubiak, decided to trade Smith to the Jets and sign Kirk Cousins to be top overall pick Fernando Mendoza’s mentor. The Raiders dealt Cousins this week to Minnesota, a team that also reportedly had Smith on their wish list.

The Jets never entertained trading Smith and not only because Glenn is trying to win and save his job. They also feel the best way for young skill-players to develop is with Smith under center. The Jets have three rookie or second-year pass-catchers – Kenyon Sadiq, Omar Cooper Jr. and Mason Taylor - and their growth is important for the future of the franchise.

Eventually, the Jets should get a look at rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik, but it’s not happening yet. If and when they do turn to Klubnik,  the Jets could always bring him back to Smith next year.

Smith will be a free agent, but the Jets could sign him to an extension. There is uncertainty about Glenn’s future, but general manager Darren Mougey seems to be on more solid footing. Mougey should strongly consider locking up Smith for another year because if he continues to play well other teams will be interested in the offseason.

The Jets’ offense has been better than in recent years. It’s a low bar, but it’s true. The Jets have lost five one-score games. The fact that they were in those games had more to do with Smith-led offense and than Glenn’s defense.

Now, there are still things that need work. The Jets have gone nearly six quarters without scoring a touchdown. They’re the NFL’s worst red-zone offense. Smith has missed open receivers and sometimes holds on to the ball too long. But he’s been efficient, mostly effective and has taken care of the football.

Smith has thrown 12 touchdown passes, the same as Josh Allen. After leading the NFL with 17 interceptions last season, Smith has thrown just three. He’s also been a steadying influence for this mostly young offense. Smith’s demeanor rarely changes. His habits and approach never do, no matter the results.

“If you’re a professional athlete, every single day matters, every single practice rep, every single time you take the field with your teammates, it matters,” Smith said. “Nothing changes.

“You go about your work the same way. You don’t let the record dictate your actions. Instead, you continue to be a professional. So for me, it’s about finding ways to be better within myself and also helping the offense be better as well.”

Smith is making a strong case to be back with the Jets next year.

By Al Iannazzone

al.iannazzone@newsday.comAl_Iannazzone

Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.