Jets quarterback Geno Smith was unexpectedly held out of Friday's preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a sore ankle, a development that coach Aaron Glenn described as a surprise.
Glenn stated that Smith's discomfort originated during the final joint practice session with the Buccaneers on Wednesday. "Nothing to be alarmed about. He'll be day to day," Glenn said of the injury.
The decision to keep Smith sidelined was made Thursday, a day before the game, after he reported his ankle soreness to the team. This move altered the initial plan to have all starters participate in the preseason opener.
Smith, who was acquired by the Jets in March via a trade with the Raiders, had been slated to start. This marks his return to the Jets, the team that originally drafted him in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He played for the Jets from 2013 to 2016.
Despite being named the starting quarterback, Smith has shown inconsistency in training camp and during recent practice sessions, including those against his own defense and the Buccaneers. Glenn may have had reservations about exposing Smith to the Buccaneers' defense during practices, particularly with players vying for roster spots.
With Smith out, Cade Klubnik took the starting snaps for the first two series before being replaced by Bailey Zappe. The Jets' quarterback depth behind Smith includes Klubnik, Zappe, and Brady Cook. Klubnik, a fourth-round draft pick, is considered the frontrunner for the backup role, though the team could explore acquiring a veteran backup.
Zappe's performance in the game included two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Cook, who started four games last season, completed 9 of 15 passes for 108 yards in his appearance.
Rookie cornerback Mory Bamba had a notable performance, recording four passes defensed and four tackles. Bamba briefly left the game for a concussion evaluation but returned. Glenn highlighted Bamba as a standout player, noting his contributions on both defense and special teams.
Smith is expected to have another opportunity to play in the Jets' next preseason game on Friday in Pittsburgh against the Steelers, provided he is healthy.