Jets Coach Backs Geno Smith to Lead Team to Playoffs

Despite Interception Issues, Glenn Believes Smith Can End Jets' Playoff Drought

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has expressed confidence in quarterback Geno Smith, saying he believes Smith can lead the team to the 'promised land' and end their long playoff drought, despite Smith's struggles with interceptions in recent seasons.

Why it matters

The Jets have not made the playoffs since 2010, the longest active drought in the NFL. Glenn's endorsement of Smith as the team's quarterback signals the organization's faith in him to turn the team around, even after a turbulent season with the Raiders where he led the league in interceptions.

The details

Smith had some success earlier in his career, making the Pro Bowl in 2023 with the Seattle Seahawks. However, his play has been uneven, including a rookie season in 2013 where he threw 21 interceptions. Glenn acknowledged Smith's struggles but said he believes Smith understands what went wrong and is ready to correct those issues. The Jets considered Smith's history but concluded it would not be 'a detriment to us as an organization.'

  • In the 2023 season, Smith made the Pro Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks.
  • In the 2024 season, Smith missed the playoffs with the Seahawks.
  • Prior to the 2026 season, Smith was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders.
  • During the 2026 season with the Raiders, Smith led the NFL in interceptions.

The players

Geno Smith

A quarterback who was drafted by the Jets in 2013 and is now returning to the team, despite struggles with interceptions in recent seasons.

Aaron Glenn

The head coach of the New York Jets, who has expressed confidence in Geno Smith's ability to lead the team to the playoffs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I just feel like he's the guy that's going to lead us to the promised land.”

— Aaron Glenn, Head Coach, New York Jets

“Listen, I know he had his struggles. I think a lot of quarterbacks, they have their struggles.”

— Aaron Glenn, Head Coach, New York Jets

What’s next

The Jets will look to see if Geno Smith can turn things around and lead the team to the playoffs in the upcoming 2027 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Jets' decision to bring back Geno Smith as their starting quarterback despite his recent struggles shows the team's faith in his ability to overcome past issues and guide the team to its first playoff berth in over a decade. However, Smith will need to prove he can limit turnovers and provide consistent production if the Jets hope to end their lengthy postseason drought.