Jets sit Geno Smith vs. Bucs with sore foot, AP source says. Rookie Cade Klubnik expected to start

New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith will not play in the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday night due to a sore foot, according to an AP source. Rookie Cade Klubnik, a fourth-round pick, is anticipated to start in Smith's absence for his NFL debut. Jets coach Aaron Glenn had previously stated that all players would be participating, suggesting Smith would start when the regular season commences.

Smith appeared injury-free during practice on Wednesday, but the team opted to bench him for the Buccaneers, who were expected to field their backups. Klubnik has competed with Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook for a backup position behind Smith and could potentially secure the No. 2 spot. Klubnik, who played for Clemson, demonstrated impressive skills with over 10,000 yards and 73 touchdowns, including 24 interceptions in 49 games and 40 starts.

His performance, however, did not match Clemson's disappointing 7-6 record, which was their worst since 2010. Klubnik was the fifth quarterback selected in April, following Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, Carson Beck, and Drew Allar.