Jets Have Had 13 Starting QBs Since Geno Smith's Tenure Ended

Geno Smith is set to return as the Jets' starting QB after a revolving door at the position.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

The New York Jets have had 13 different starting quarterbacks since Geno Smith's time as the team's QB1 ended in 2015. Smith, who was drafted by the Jets in 2013, is now set to return as the team's starting quarterback after a tumultuous period that saw the Jets cycle through a long list of signal-callers.

Why it matters

The Jets' inability to find stability at the quarterback position has been a major factor in the team's struggles over the past decade. Geno Smith's return represents an opportunity for the team to potentially find some consistency, but the Jets will need to address the position long-term if they hope to become a contender in the AFC.

The details

After Smith's time as the Jets' starting QB ended in 2015, the team has had 13 different players start at the position, including Ryan Fitzpatrick, Sam Darnold, and Aaron Rodgers. Smith is set to return to the Jets in 2026 on a $3.3 million contract, and will presumably be the team's starting quarterback barring any further roster moves.

  • Geno Smith was drafted by the Jets in 2013.
  • Smith was the Jets' starting QB for his first two seasons in 2013 and 2014.
  • Smith's time as the Jets' QB1 ended in 2015 after he was involved in a locker room altercation.
  • Since then, the Jets have had 13 different starting quarterbacks.
  • Geno Smith is set to return as the Jets' starting QB in 2026 on a $3.3 million contract.

The players

Geno Smith

A quarterback who was drafted by the New York Jets in 2013 and served as their starting QB for his first two seasons before losing the job.

IK Enemkpali

A linebacker who was involved in a locker room altercation with Geno Smith in 2015, leading to Smith losing his starting job with the Jets.

Ryan Fitzpatrick

One of the 13 quarterbacks who started for the Jets after Geno Smith's tenure ended.

Sam Darnold

One of the 13 quarterbacks who started for the Jets after Geno Smith's tenure ended.

Aaron Rodgers

One of the 13 quarterbacks who started for the Jets after Geno Smith's tenure ended.

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What’s next

The Jets will need to determine if Geno Smith is their long-term answer at quarterback or if they will look to draft a new signal-caller in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Jets' inability to find stability at the quarterback position has been a major factor in the team's struggles over the past decade. Geno Smith's return represents an opportunity for the team to potentially find some consistency, but the Jets will need to address the position long-term if they hope to become a contender in the AFC.