Rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik did not deliver a convincing performance in the New York Jets' preseason finale, leaving the competition for the backup quarterback job unresolved. Facing a Giants defense that played limited starters, Klubnik threw an interception and appeared shaky during the game on Friday, August 28, 2026.
Klubnik completed 6 of 13 passes for 59 yards and was intercepted by linebacker Zaire Barnes. His preseason stats concluded with 21 completions on 34 attempts for 190 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. He was also sacked four times in the 23-6 loss to the Giants.
The Jets have been facing a significant question mark at the backup quarterback position throughout the preseason. Geno Smith has been established as the undisputed starter since his acquisition in March. Klubnik had been considered to be outplaying fellow quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook on the roster, but concerns linger about his readiness to step in if Smith were injured.
The team drafted Klubnik in the fourth round of the April draft. Despite impressing with his poise and decision-making during practices, his inexperience was evident in the preseason finale. A particularly ill-advised pass in the second quarter led to Barnes' interception. Later, before halftime, the Jets gained possession near midfield due to a penalty, but Klubnik failed to capitalize. A third-down sack pushed the team out of field goal range.
On the defensive side, the Jets recorded two takeaways, including an interception by linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball, who also forced a fumble recovered in the end zone by cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers. These turnovers marked a positive trend after the team went without an interception for the entire previous season.
Running back Chip Trayanum scored the Jets' only touchdown on a 1-yard run early in the game, though the extra point was missed. Trayanum also sustained a frightening injury on the final play of the first half, requiring immobilization and transport to a local hospital. The team reported he was alert and able to move his extremities.
Most of the Jets' starters were held out of the preseason finale, with only a few players nursing injuries, such as nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat and edge rusher Joseph Ossai, seeing playing time. The game primarily featured players vying for spots on the 53-man roster, which teams must finalize by Sunday, September 1st.
Following roster cuts, the Jets will focus on preparing for their regular-season opener against the Titans on September 13. Key areas of concern for the team beyond backup quarterback include the kicker position and depth on the offensive line. General Manager Darren Mougey has the opportunity to address these needs via the waiver wire, where the Jets hold the second priority.