Jets quarterback Geno Smith experienced a difficult joint practice session against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday, throwing three interceptions and a pick-six that evoked memories of his turnover-prone days early in his career. The performance raised concerns during the team's training camp.
During the practice, Smith's first pass of the day was intercepted and returned for a touchdown by Buccaneers cornerback Damarion Williams. Following several errant throws, Smith was intercepted twice more, including a short pass intended for a teammate that went directly to Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter.
In contrast to Smith's struggles, wide receiver Garrett Wilson showcased his talent. During a red-zone drill, Wilson caught a deflected pass from Smith, evaded one defender, split three others, and scored a touchdown.
The Jets' defense showed some promise in its efforts to avoid setting a dubious NFL record. Last season, the team did not record a single interception. On Tuesday, safety Jarius Monroe intercepted a pass from Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, and safety Dane Belton nearly had another, deflecting multiple passes during the practice.
The practice was briefly halted after cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers collapsed near the sideline following a play. He was taken to a local hospital on a stretcher, though head coach Aaron Glenn reported that Stiggers was conscious and communicating before his departure. Defensive end Joseph Ossai was removed from the PUP list and is expected to be cleared to practice soon.