Smith was inconsistent in his 2025 reunion with Pete Carroll, in part due to struggling offensive line. In 15 games (2-13 record) for Las Vegas, Smith completed 67.4% of his attempts with 3,025 passing yards, 19 touchdowns and a league-high 17 interceptions.
With the Raiders expected by many to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza or another QB with the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, New York trading for Smith allows the journeyman an opportunity to start with Gang Green following Glenn’s words of affirmation.
Despite going 3-14 in his first season as the Jets head coach, Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are confident in a quick turnaround. During free agency, the Jets franchise tagged running back Breece Hall, acquired veteran T’Vondre Sweat via trade, signed linebacker Demario Davis and traded for five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Being too youthful at times hurt the Jets last season. It was a reason why Glenn and Mougey added veteran pieces to the roster. As Glenn enters his second season at the helm, he envisions a smoother transition with veteran leaders in the locker room.
“I think last year we have maybe the second youngest team in the NFL. This year, we had an influx of veteran guys that came in,” Glenn said. “So, absolutely, it was intentional. The coaching staff was intentional. The team building is intentional, and everything that we do is intentional, but it’s also a process.”
That process will continue in April’s draft, where the Jets hold two first-round picks (Nos. 2 and 16) and a total of nine selections.
Although Smith has been declared the starter for 2026, he’ll turn 36 next season. High draft capital could lead the Jets to look at their future of the position.
Asked specifically about selecting a young QB, however, Glenn kept the focus on continuing to load up the roster with good players everywhere.
“We have to come out this year with really good players,” he said, “and that’s the only thing that we think about. Whoever that is.”
