Jets Acquire Former Draft Pick Geno Smith in Trade with Raiders

35-year-old QB returns to New York after stints with several NFL teams

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

The New York Jets have reportedly acquired quarterback Geno Smith in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith, who was originally drafted by the Jets in 2013, will reunite with the team that gave him his start in the NFL. The Jets are in need of a quarterback after last season's struggles, and Smith brings veteran experience having played for several teams over his 13-year career.

Why it matters

The Jets' quarterback situation has been in flux since the departure of Sam Darnold a few years ago. Bringing back Geno Smith, who had some early promise with the team, could provide stability and leadership to a position of need. However, Smith's up-and-down career since leaving the Jets raises questions about whether he can be a long-term solution.

The details

According to reports, the Jets will acquire Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick from the Raiders in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round selection. Smith, 35, was originally drafted by the Jets in the second round in 2013 and started 29 games over four seasons with the team. After leaving the Jets, he has had stints with the Giants, Chargers, Seahawks, and most recently the Raiders, where he led the league in interceptions in 2025. The Jets are hoping Smith can provide veteran leadership and stability to their quarterback room.

  • The Jets drafted Geno Smith in the 2nd round in 2013.
  • Smith started 29 games for the Jets from 2013-2016.
  • Smith signed with the Raiders in 2025 and led the league in interceptions that season.

The players

Geno Smith

A 35-year-old quarterback who was originally drafted by the Jets in 2013 and is now returning to the team in a trade with the Raiders.

Justin Fields

The Jets' starting quarterback in 2025 who went 3-14 in his first season with the team.

Brady Cook

A quarterback on the Jets' roster who also saw playing time in 2025.

Tyrod Taylor

A free agent quarterback who was part of the Jets' quarterback rotation in 2025.

Aaron Glenn

The Jets' first-year head coach in 2025.

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What’s next

The Jets will look to integrate Geno Smith into their quarterback room and evaluate if he can be a viable starter for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Jets' decision to reacquire Geno Smith, their former second-round pick, is a low-risk move to add veteran experience to their quarterback depth chart. However, Smith's up-and-down career since leaving the Jets raises questions about whether he can be a long-term solution at the position.