For Geno Smith, his journey in the NFL has truly come full circle. After years of ups and downs, stops with multiple organizations, and a career resurgence that many never saw coming, the veteran quarterback is heading back to the franchise where his professional career first began.
Smith was traded back to the New York Jets on Tuesday, creating a surprising reunion between a player and a franchise. The move gives Smith a chance to return to a familiar place, though both he and the organization look much different compared to when he first wore the green and white.
Shortly after the trade became official, Smith spoke about the moment and made it clear that the opportunity meant a lot to him.
“Complete full circle moment back to where it all began,” Smith said, per NFL.com. “I’m excited to connect with my new teammates and coaches and everyone in the building as well as build a new relationship with the fan base and community.”
Smith originally entered the league as a second-round pick by the Jets in the 2013 NFL Draft. At the time, the Jets hoped that he could develop into their long-term answer at quarterback.
He was quickly moved into the starting role during a tough stretch for the organization. Coaching changes, roster problems, and more made the situation challenging. While Smith showed moments of potential during his early seasons, it wasn’t enough.
After his time with the Jets ended, Smith spent years bouncing around the league as a backup and starter. Stops with teams like the Seattle Seahawks helped change his career and In Seattle, he eventually revived his career in a major way, stepping into the starting role and proving he still had the ability to lead an offense at a high level.
Now, returning to the Jets, Smith appears determined to embrace the opportunity.
“I've got a huge chip on my shoulder, and I believe Aaron Glenn does as well,” Smith told Josina Anderson.
For the Jets, the move represents a nice opportunity to reunite with a player who understands the organization but now carries far more experience and confidence.