Jets Bring Back Geno Smith as 2026 Quarterback

The team's search for a new signal-caller ends with a familiar face.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The New York Jets have acquired quarterback Geno Smith in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, bringing back the former Jets starter to lead the team's offense in the 2026 season. The move comes after the Jets explored other options like Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa, but ultimately decided Smith provided the best combination of experience and competence at the position.

Why it matters

The Jets have struggled to find consistent quarterback play in recent years, and the acquisition of Smith represents their latest attempt to solidify the position. While not an elite option, Smith has shown the ability to be a capable starter in the NFL and could provide the steady hand the Jets need as they look to return to the playoffs.

The details

In the trade, the Jets sent a 2026 fourth-round draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Smith. The 32-year-old quarterback spent the first four seasons of his career with the Jets after being selected in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He started 29 games for the team before being released in 2017. Smith then spent time with the Giants, Chargers and Seahawks before landing with the Raiders in 2024.

  • The Jets acquired Geno Smith in a trade with the Raiders on March 10, 2026.

The players

Geno Smith

A 32-year-old quarterback who previously spent four seasons as the starting quarterback for the New York Jets after being drafted by the team in 2013.

Kyler Murray

A 24-year-old quarterback who currently plays for the Arizona Cardinals.

Tua Tagovailoa

A 27-year-old quarterback who currently plays for the Miami Dolphins.

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What they’re saying

“Look, no one is going to pick the Jets to make the playoffs because they traded for Smith on Tuesday, but he was the best of some bad options.”

— Brian Costello, Sports Columnist (New York Post)

What’s next

The Jets will look to Smith to provide stability at the quarterback position as they aim to return to the playoffs in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Jets' acquisition of Geno Smith represents a low-risk, high-reward move as the team looks to find a competent starting quarterback. While not an elite option, Smith's experience and familiarity with the organization could provide the steady hand the Jets need as they try to end their playoff drought.