Geno Smith is already giving Jets fans an early reason to panic

Between a recent rash of turnovers and preparing to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium, New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith truly has come full circle.

Smith made his NFL debut way back in September 2013, when he led the Jets to a thrilling last-second victory over the Bucs. But after a strong start to training camp, Smith has quickly reminded fans why his initial Jets tenure ended after only four seasons.

SNY’s Connor Hughes reported that Smith went 10-of-16 with two interceptions in Tuesday’s joint practice with the Buccaneers. Although he started 8-of-10 on Wednesday, he failed to score in a specific situation. The Jets needed to drive down the field with 32 seconds left from their own 32-yard line.

But the most concerning part was Smith reportedly relying on short passes no longer than six yards at max. Only one of his first 10 passes during Wednesday’s team drills went beyond eight yards.

“That might have had to do with Bowles’ scheme,” Hughes wrote, “but you hoped for some more chance plays with the Jets emphasizing [explosive plays].”

Should New York Jets fans be concerned by Geno Smith’s recent change of play style?

Jets coach Aaron Glenn did not suggest that Smith’s preference for short passes was intentional on the team’s part. Although Smith turns 36 in October, this will be his first year playing in a Frank Reich-led offense. So what changed this week?

“The aggressiveness touted with Smith in the first couple weeks of camp disappeared against the Bucs,” Hughes added.

The lack of explanation is slightly troubling. Now is the time for Smith to take risks as he becomes more familiar with his new teammates, and he’s made significant progress in that goal. Tight end Jeremy Ruckert and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell have both earned rave reviews for how well they’ve connected with Smith. 

Even with Breece Hall in the backfield, the Jets cannot consistently win without a competent passing game. They don’t have the 2009-10 defense that could occasionally bail out Mark Sanchez — and there were plenty of games, especially in 2009, where his turnovers or inconsistency proved insurmountable.

As for Smith, he’s quarterbacking a Jets offense with several intriguing weapons, as well as an established No. 1 wideout in Garrett Wilson. Not that anyone is expecting the Jets to be the 2007 Patriots, mind you, but fans are nonetheless buzzing with excitement.

Smith is starting Friday night against the Buccaneers, so we should have a chance to see how the first-team offense operates. But if he comes out mainly throwing short passes, then the Jets might have a significant problem on their hands.

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