Jets QB Geno Smith Praises 'Special Coach' Aaron Glenn

Veteran QB excited to reunite with Jets, lead team under new head coach

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:40pm

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Quarterback Geno Smith is returning to the New York Jets after a one-year stint with the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith, who is entering his 12th NFL season, cited his relationship with new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn as a key factor in his decision to re-sign with the team. Smith praised Glenn's leadership and vision for the team, saying he believes the coach is 'special' and that he's 'looking forward to the opportunity' to play for him again.

Why it matters

Smith's return to the Jets provides veteran leadership and stability at the quarterback position as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing 2022 season. His endorsement of new head coach Aaron Glenn is also significant, as Glenn aims to establish a winning culture in his first year leading the team.

The details

After a career-defining season with the Seattle Seahawks in 2022, Smith signed with the Raiders last year but is now headed back to the Jets, where he previously spent four seasons. Smith said he was convinced to return to New York after a conversation with Glenn, who outlined his plan for the team and Smith's role as a veteran leader. Smith believes in Glenn's ability to lead the team and is excited to work with the Jets' young offensive talent, including wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall.

  • Smith was selected by the Jets in the 2nd round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
  • Smith spent four seasons with the Jets, starting for two years from 2013-2014.
  • After leaving the Jets, Smith had stints with the Giants, Chargers, Seahawks and Raiders.
  • Smith had a career-resurgence with the Seahawks in 2022, earning a Pro Bowl selection.
  • Smith signed with the Raiders in 2023 but is now returning to the Jets for the 2023 season.

The players

Geno Smith

A 35-year-old veteran quarterback who is returning to the New York Jets after a one-year stint with the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith previously spent four seasons with the Jets from 2013-2016.

Aaron Glenn

The new head coach of the New York Jets, who Smith praised as a 'special coach' and cited as a key factor in his decision to re-sign with the team.

Demario Davis

A Jets linebacker who reached out to Smith and encouraged him to return to the team.

Garrett Wilson

A young Jets wide receiver who Smith is excited to play with, citing highlights of Wilson 'routing dudes up.'

Breece Hall

A Jets running back who Smith is looking forward to playing alongside, noting highlights of Hall 'running past defenders.'

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What they’re saying

“Just talking to AG and hearing his plan for the team and how he was going to lead it, and what his plan and my role was with the team, I was pretty sold on it.”

— Geno Smith, Quarterback

“I truly believe in Coach Glenn. I think he's a special coach. I've seen him. I played against him. I know what his defense has to offer, and so I know he's going to be great on that side. And I can't wait to get back with the team and get to work.”

— Geno Smith, Quarterback

“I've been watching highlights of Garrett Wilson routing dudes up. I'm watching Breece Hall run past defenders, and in the secondary making guys miss.”

— Geno Smith, Quarterback

What’s next

Smith will look to build chemistry with the Jets' young offensive talent during the offseason program and training camp as he prepares to lead the team in the 2023 season under new head coach Aaron Glenn.

The takeaway

Geno Smith's return to the Jets provides valuable veteran leadership and experience as the team looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 campaign. His endorsement of new head coach Aaron Glenn suggests the two are aligned on the team's vision and direction, which could pay dividends as the Jets aim to get back to the playoffs.