Geno Smith was once considered the future of the New York Jets, a promising quarterback with potential, a strong arm, and a bright personality. However, his tenure with the Jets ended in disappointment due to inconsistency, struggles, and a highly publicized locker room fight that impacted his career with the team.
On Sunday, Smith will face the franchise that drafted him in 2013 as the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks. This marks his first time playing the Jets at MetLife Stadium, the place he called home early in his career.
“It’s the biggest game of the year because it’s the next game,” Smith said, acknowledging the narrative surrounding his return. He previously defeated the Jets in Seattle in 2022.
Smith played four seasons with the Jets, starting in his first two years and showing glimpses of his college stardom. However, his career was derailed in 2015 when linebacker IK Enemkpali broke his jaw in a training camp altercation. Smith started just one more game for the Jets after that, finishing his time in New York with 28 touchdowns and 36 interceptions in 33 games.
“I’ve always had tremendous love and respect for that organization,” said Smith. “A lot of great people there, but as far as revenge goes, that’s not on my mind.”
After his time with the Jets, Smith spent one year with the Giants and another with the Chargers before joining the Seahawks in 2019. Initially a backup to Russell Wilson, Smith became the starter in 2022 after Wilson’s trade to Denver. He flourished, earning the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year, a three-year contract, and making the Pro Bowl in both of the last two seasons. Over the past three years, Smith has thrown 62 touchdown passes, establishing himself as one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich praised Smith’s career revival: “He’s a guy that’s absolutely started over in Seattle and revived his career in so many ways. A testament to the resolve he has.”
