Former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick sees Geno Smith's return to the New York Jets as a narrative akin to a "Hollywood script," emphasizing the veteran quarterback's potential to provide crucial leadership for the franchise. Smith, drafted by the Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, is back with the team that originally selected him, hoping to rewrite his New York tenure.
Fitzpatrick, who was once the Jets' starter during Smith's initial time with the team, believes the quarterback has matured significantly. "The biggest thing he’s gonna provide is stability and professionalism," Fitzpatrick told Fox News Digital. "I think it’s cool for some of the people in the building who were there with Geno in his younger days to see him come back and see how much he’s grown as a person, as a player. That professionalism is something that team really needs."
Smith's career trajectory has been marked by a journey through backup roles before re-emerging as a starter. After brief stints with the New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers, he served as Russell Wilson's backup with the Seattle Seahawks. In 2022, Smith earned the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and secured two Pro Bowl selections, leading the Seahawks' offense with over 4,300 passing yards in the 2024 season. Following a one-year stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, the Jets acquired Smith in March via a trade for a sixth-round pick, signaling a reunion.
Joining Smith in this reunion is linebacker Demario Davis. Fitzpatrick highlighted Davis's return as another significant addition for the Jets, stating, "Obviously, bringing in a guy like Demario Davis, how he’s still doing it. ... He’s also going to bring a professionalism to that locker room." Fitzpatrick praised head coach Aaron Glenn's efforts in acquiring these veteran presences, viewing them as essential pieces for both offense and defense.
The Jets' offensive unit features players such as wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who has achieved three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons despite team struggles, and running back Breece Hall. The team also drafted tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. in the first round of the recent draft, along with defensive end David Bailey.
Fitzpatrick, now an analyst for "Thursday Night Football," has partnered with VRST, a men's activewear brand, emphasizing the importance of comfort and style in his active lifestyle, whether he is covering games or managing family duties.