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Jets Predicted to Land Potential Geno Smith Replacement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Mar 26, 2026 5:02 PM ET

The New York Jets are set to have a new starting quarterback in 2026 after acquiring Geno Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders. At 35 years old, this will be his second stint with the Jets. He began his career as a second-round pick for New York in the 2013 NFL Draft.

The two-time Pro Bowler is looking to bounce back after leading the league in interceptions (17) last year for the Raiders. However, on a one-year, $3.3 million deal, if he doesn't pan out, the Jets can let him walk in free agency at the end of the season.

Former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith was traded to the New York Jets.Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

While Smith isn't viewed as a long-term solution given his age and struggles, New York's depth doesn't offer much promise. The only other quarterbacks the Jets have under contract going into the 2026 season are Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook. Together, the two have combined for 2,962 passing yards, 14 touchdowns and 21 interceptions.

That's why Athlon Sports' Steven Lassan has the Jets finding a new quarterback in his latest mock draft. Lassan predicts that New York will select LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with the No. 103 pick.

Nussmeier didn't live up to expectations in 2025, throwing for 1,927 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. He was limited to just nine games because of an abdominal injury. It was a big step down after throwing for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2024.

Once viewed as a first-round talent, his past production makes him an intriguing prospect. If the Jets opt to let Smith walk in free agency, Nussmeier could take over as the replacement after sitting for a year learning Aaron Glenn's offense.

The Jets have shown interest in the LSU product, with Nussmeier confirming he is set to meet with New York during an appearance on "The Insiders."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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