New York Jets rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik led scoring drives on both of his series during Friday night’s preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Filling in for Geno Smith, who was sidelined with ankle soreness, Klubnik completed 5-of-7 passes for 56 yards in his NFL debut.
Last-Minute QB Change at MetLife Stadium
The Jets initially planned to start veteran quarterback Geno Smith in the preseason matchup, but a late-week decision forced the team to adjust its roster. Head coach Aaron Glenn announced that Smith was held out as a precautionary measure due to ankle soreness,
While the team confirmed Smith is expected to remain the starting quarterback for the regular season, the unexpected absence provided a significant opportunity for the rookie. Klubnik, who was informed of his starting role on Thursday, reportedly approached the moment with a simple internal directive: Let’s go play some football.
Klubnik’s Performance on the Field
Klubnik’s debut was efficient, characterized by his ability to move the offense down the field on both of his series. His opening drive spanned 12 plays and 55 yards, highlighted by a 12-yard completion to tight end Mason Taylor and two key third-down conversions to wide receiver Garrett Wilson. The drive concluded with a 27-yard field goal by Cade York, giving the Jets an early 3-0 lead.
On his second series, the fourth-round pick leaned on the running game to extend the lead. After connecting with Omar Cooper Jr. for a 5-yard gain, Klubnik handed off to running back Braelon Allen, who carried the ball on three consecutive plays. The final carry resulted in a 31-yard touchdown run, capping off Klubnik’s night.
Competition for the Backup Role
The preseason opener serves as a critical evaluation period for the Jets’ quarterback depth chart. Klubnik is currently locked in a three-way competition with veteran Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook to secure the primary backup spot behind Smith.
Klubnik’s college career ended with a difficult 7-6 season at Clemson, leading to his selection in the fourth round of the April draft. He was the fifth quarterback taken, trailing Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, Carson Beck, and Drew Allar.
Defensive Notes and Roster Status
The game also provided a look at the Jets’ defensive front, specifically draft pick David Bailey. While Bailey did not record a sack during his two series of work, he demonstrated flashes of potential, including a notable spin move and effective run-stopping capability. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, utilized their reserve players for the duration of the contest.
Coach Glenn’s earlier comments that everybody’s playing
held true for most of the roster, though Smith’s absence remained the primary storyline of the evening.
Head coach Aaron Glenn stated on the CBS broadcast that Smith was scratched due to ankle soreness, though the team does not believe it is a serious issue.
