Jets Acquire QB Geno Smith, Draft New Weapon

The team makes a surprise trade for the former second-round pick and adds a top offensive prospect.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:18pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and draft prospects, representing the complex decisions facing the Jets' front office.The Jets' offseason moves aim to reshape their offense, but the team must balance immediate needs with long-term planning.NYC Today

The New York Jets have made a surprise move, trading for quarterback Geno Smith, who was expected to be released by the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith, a former second-round pick by the Jets in 2013, could have an immediate impact on the team's offense. The Jets are also expected to use an early draft pick to add a top offensive weapon to complement Smith.

Why it matters

The Jets' quarterback situation has been in flux for years, and the acquisition of Smith provides them with an experienced option to compete for the starting job. Adding a top offensive draft pick could give the team's passing attack a much-needed boost as they look to return to the playoffs.

The details

The Jets traded for Geno Smith, who was expected to be released by the Las Vegas Raiders. Smith was originally drafted by the Jets in the second round in 2013 and started 29 games for the team over his first two seasons. The team is also expected to use an early draft pick, potentially trading up, to select a top offensive prospect to pair with Smith.

  • The Jets traded for Geno Smith on March 30, 2026.
  • The 2027 NFL Draft, which is expected to be talent-rich, is scheduled for April.

The players

Geno Smith

A former second-round pick by the Jets in 2013 who has starting experience in the NFL.

New York Jets

An NFL team based in New York that is looking to improve its quarterback situation and passing attack.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Jets will need to decide if Geno Smith will be their starting quarterback in 2026 or if they will use an early draft pick to select a quarterback of the future.

The takeaway

The Jets' acquisition of Geno Smith and their expected use of an early draft pick on an offensive weapon shows the team's commitment to improving its passing attack and providing more support for its quarterback position.