Rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik made a compelling case for the New York Jets' backup QB job during a surprise start in Friday night's preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Klubnik, who was thrust into the starting role due to an ankle injury sustained by Geno Smith, led the offense on a 12-play, 65-yard drive that resulted in a field goal and later guided the second-string unit to a touchdown on a four-play possession. He completed 5 of 7 passes for 56 yards and operated efficiently over 16 snaps. The Jets ultimately lost the game 24-16, but the team sat many of its starters, including Smith, who is considered day-to-day with a sore ankle.
Klubnik displayed poise and confidence, completing a 12-yard pass on his first throw and later connecting with Garrett Wilson for a crucial first down. Despite a brief fumble on a handoff and an overthrown ball to Wilson that could have been a touchdown, Klubnik performed beyond expectations, especially considering his limited repetitions with the starting offense in practice. "He has some moxie to him," Jets coach Aaron Glenn said of Klubnik. "He’s very confident. He’s confident in his arm. He’s confident in his ability to elude and make plays with his feet."
Klubnik's performance was a bright spot, particularly when contrasted with backup Bailey Zappe, who replaced Klubnik and threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Zappe's struggles, including another interception on the subsequent series due to a dropped pass, further elevated Klubnik's standing.
In other game action, the Jets' starting defense allowed only one first down over two series against the Buccaneers' backups. Defensive lineman Will McDonald recorded a sack. Rookie David Bailey had a quiet debut, registering one tackle and one quarterback pressure in eight snaps, facing consistent attention from the Buccaneers' offense.