The New York Jets plan to have quarterback Geno Smith start in Friday night’s 2026 preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Multiple reports say this will mark Smith’s first preseason start.
Yahoo Sports reports that Smith missed the Jets’ preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a minor ankle injury. In that game, the Jets’ head coach Aaron Glenn gave healthy starters a series, and indicated that the starters would also play in the next exhibition. Yahoo Sports adds that Smith’s injury status has improved enough for him to take the field against Pittsburgh.
Other outlets echo the same decision. Yahoo Sports’ NFL segment, citing SNY NFL Insider Connor Hughes, says Smith has been dealing with ankle soreness and is expected to start. Newsweek similarly reports that Smith will be the Jets’ starting quarterback for the Steelers game, aligning with the timetable after his earlier absence.
