Geno Smith Impresses Jets Coaching Staff with Preseason Performance

Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich has expressed strong approval of quarterback Geno Smith's performance during training camp and a recent preseason game, describing him as "dialed in" and "on point."

Smith completed all seven of his passes for a touchdown in a preseason outing against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This showing has bolstered confidence in his ability to lead the Jets' offense as the team prepares for the regular season.

"I don’t want to overstate it," Reich said of Smith. "Everything I said is even more true than I thought it was." Reich noted that Smith's grasp of the playbook has deepened, allowing the team to explore more complex strategies.

Reich, who will call plays from upstairs for the first time in his career, also highlighted Smith's focus and dedication during practice. He described Smith, 35, as a leader who "is certainly setting the tone" for his teammates. This leadership quality has been a recurring theme throughout the summer.

Smith, acquired by the Jets from the Raiders, is returning to the franchise where his career began from 2013 to 2016. After his initial tenure with the Jets, his career was later revived with the Seattle Seahawks.

Despite some inconsistent moments in earlier practices, Smith's performance against the Steelers marked a turning point. He connected with multiple receivers, including Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, Braelon Allen, Mason Taylor, and Jelani Woods. Smith stated that he is "extremely comfortable" with the offense, a feeling that continues to grow with repetitions.

"Again, repetition, I’ll keep preaching that, it’s all about repetition," Smith said. "And the more reps we get together, the more we’ll understand each other. I think it’ll just continue to get better as it goes. But we’re putting the work in. We have the right guys."

While Smith indicated he is not yet focused on the regular-season opener against the Titans, that game will serve as a significant test of the preseason momentum. Adonai Mitchell commented on Smith's current form, stating, "he’s as advertised."