Geno Smith Throws Two Interceptions, Including Pick-Six, in Jets’ Joint Practice With Buccaneers
Geno Smith’s return to the New York Jets hit a rough patch this week. In Tuesday’s joint practice against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the veteran quarterback threw two interceptions — one returned for a touchdown — as New York’s first-team offense struggled to find rhythm under new coordinator Frank Reich.
The Jets had been building momentum through the first stretch of training camp. That changed once Tampa Bay’s defense showed up. According to ESPN, the first-team offense struggled in Tuesday’s session, with Smith intercepted twice and the unit trending downward after an encouraging start to camp.
It wasn’t just the picks. Running back Breece Hall put it bluntly after the Bucs controlled the line of scrimmage: “They beat us up a little today,” he said, per ESPN.
Day two looked different. Smith was sharper in Wednesday’s session, and the offense found some rhythm in red-zone work, connecting on touchdowns to tight end Mason Taylor and receiver Garrett Wilson. Smith described the two days as a step forward despite the rough start. “I thought we had a really good, competitive two days,” he said after Wednesday’s practice. “I thought there were a lot of great plays out there that were made, and I think there were also some plays we can learn from.”
Reich, for his part, isn’t wavering on his quarterback. He praised Smith’s focus following a sweltering Tuesday session, saying Smith is “a leader of the offense… in every way, shape and form,” and pointed to his concentration as a trait that lifts the whole unit, according to ESPN.
What’s Next for Smith and the Jets
The Jets have no practice scheduled for Thursday. Smith and the rest of the starters are set to play Friday night against the Buccaneers in New York’s preseason opener at MetLife Stadium — Smith’s first game action back with the franchise that drafted him in 2013. He’s eager for it. “Just to get out there and just play ball,” Smith said, describing the pull of “the real live game atmosphere,” per the Jets’ official site.
Smith, now 35, is on his second stint with the Jets after stops with the Chargers, Seahawks and Raiders. His first tenure in New York (2013–2016) produced a 12-18 record. He rebuilt his career in Seattle, making two Pro Bowls, before a difficult 2025 season in Las Vegas. Friday’s preseason opener will be an early look at where this version of the Jets offense actually stands.
