The New York Jets will begin the season with rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik as Geno Smith's primary backup, coach Aaron Glenn announced Monday. This decision comes as a mild surprise to some fans who had anticipated the team might pursue a veteran backup.
Klubnik, whom the Jets drafted in the fourth round from Clemson, played in all three preseason games, starting two. He completed 16 of 27 passes for 134 yards with one interception and led the team on three scoring drives, though he did not throw a touchdown pass. Despite these statistics, Glenn expressed confidence in the rookie.
"He's our backup quarterback and he'll do a good job," Glenn stated. He also acknowledged that Klubnik's development will be aided by the practice repetitions he will receive as the No. 2 quarterback.
Glenn highlighted Klubnik's poise and intelligence as key factors in the decision. "It's just the confidence and how he operates and what he's done in practice and what he's done in the games," Glenn said. "I don't think anybody ever said that there weren't going to be hiccups. He's a rookie. But he's always learning. He's a very intelligent guy. We're proud that we have him. He's improved over the course of training camp and he's going to continue to improve."
Offensive coordinator Frank Reich has also been a vocal supporter of Klubnik, praising his composure, particularly in high-pressure situations during practice. Reich recalled a play where Klubnik, under duress in his own end zone, calmly progressed through his reads to find a third option.
The Jets plan to bring veteran Bailey Zappe back to the practice squad as the No. 3 quarterback. The team waived Brady Cook, who had started four games at the end of the previous season, and he was subsequently claimed by the Dolphins.
Klubnik, a former top high school recruit, has extensive experience in significant games, including conference championships and the College Football Playoff during his time at Clemson. His draft stock fell after a difficult junior season marked by injuries and team struggles, leading to his selection by the Jets later than some projections. The team now relies on his readiness should Smith be sidelined.