Geno Smith Confident in Return to the New York Jets.

Quarterback Geno Smith expressed strong confidence about returning to the New York Jets, saying the team will be getting an improved version of the player who previously left the organization. Speaking to reporters during a virtual media session on Thursday, Smith explained that he still believes he has several productive years remaining in the National Football League. Because of his experience and growth, he believes he is now a more complete quarterback than during his earlier years. Smith, now 35 years old, originally began his professional career with the Jets after they selected him in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. He immediately became the team’s starting quarterback and started 29 games during his first two seasons. However, his time with the team was disrupted in 2015 after he suffered a broken jaw during a locker-room altercation, which caused him to lose his starting position. After leaving the Jets, Smith rebuilt his career with several teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, where he experienced his most successful seasons. In 2022 and 2023, he earned Pro Bowl honors and played some of the best football of his career. Despite that success, Smith struggled during the 2025 season while playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, finishing the year with a 3–14 team record and leading the league with 17 interceptions. Earlier this week, the Jets traded for Smith in hopes that he can bring stability to their quarterback position. Smith said returning to the team where his professional career began feels meaningful and unexpected. Although his original goal was to spend his entire career with the Jets, he acknowledged that his journey took many different turns before bringing him back to the organization. Reflecting on his career, Smith emphasized that the experiences he gained throughout the league have helped him mature both as a player and as a person. He said he feels honored to once again serve as the Jets’ starting quarterback and is excited to begin working with the team.

Smith also praised the Jets’ young offensive talent, including wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall. He believes the roster has the potential to develop into one of the league’s strongest offensive groups. In addition to reuniting with the Jets, Smith will also play alongside linebacker Demario Davis, a former teammate who recently returned to the team after spending many years with the New Orleans Saints. Davis praised Smith’s perseverance and described his career path as an impressive journey. Smith said his return to New York gives him an opportunity to prove himself again and possibly accomplish what he once hoped for earlier in his career—finishing his time in the NFL as a member of the Jets.