Geno Smith already has strong feelings about Jets rookie Cade Klubnik

When New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith looks at Cade Klubnik, he sees a rookie vying for his job.

As it turns out, Smith couldn’t be happier.

Smith raved about Klubnik, the Jets’ fourth-round pick and former Clemson standout, following Thursday’s workout.

Not only is Smith impressed with Klubnik’s skill set, but he left no doubt that he loves his teammate’s attitude.

“I feel like he’s the guy who’s always prepared,” Smith said. “He’s been preparing as if he’s going to be the starter … I’ve seen that from him. I think he’s got a bright future.”

Klubnik started the last three seasons at Clemson, finishing 26-13 with 86 all-purpose touchdowns (71 passing, 15 rushing) in that span.  

Geno Smith’s Cade Klubnik analysis is surprisingly heartwarming

Competition breeds results, though Smith’s job as the Week 1 starter is safe.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn has repeatedly said that Smith is the starter.  

The real competition is for the backup role, and Bailey Zappe reportedly has an early lead over Brady Cook.

It’s nonetheless refreshing to see Smith, whose NFL journey is an all-time story, so openly positive about Klubnik.

Just because they’re teammates doesn’t mean Smith is obligated to offer PR-friendly observations.

Go ask the Vikings, who watched JJ McCarthy essentially say that he and fellow quarterback Kyler Murray don’t have a relationship.

Granted, the situation is far different, seeing as McCarthy and Murray are competing for the starting job.

But at the same time, would anyone have faulted Smith if he offered generic takeaways regarding Klubnik?

It’s not like Smith needs to worry about his place on the 2026 Jets.

Smith already collected a $3.3 million signing bonus, and the Raiders are covering $16.2 million of his salary.  

So long as Smith didn’t veer into uncomfortable territory, he could’ve said whatever he wanted about Klubnik.

Yet, he opted for positivity and encouragement.

There’s obviously no guarantee that Klubnik truly factors into the Jets’ long-term plans.

At least until the season starts, the Jets will continue being linked to Texas star quarterback Arch Manning.

But if or when the Jets turn to Klubnik, Smith just gave them a reason for optimism.

Jets fans potentially feeling good about a quarterback?

What kind of world are we living in?!

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