Geno Smith will play for Jets in preseason game against Steelers

New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) practices his throws during a practice for the New York Jets at their training facility on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in Florham Park. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co

Jets quarterback Geno Smith will make his first start of the 2026 preseason Friday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Sources: #Jets QB Geno Smith will start tomorrow’s game against the #Steelers

— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) August 20, 2026

Smith missed the Jets’ preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a minor ankle injury.

Aaron Glenn gave his healthy starters a series in that first exhibition game and indicated that the starters would also see action in Pittsburgh. It wasn’t clear Smith would be among those suiting up due to the ankle injury. It wouldn’t make sense to put the quarterback on the field if he was anything less than 100 percent. The team still has a long time to go before its first regular season game. While these reps can be helpful, there is still another preseason game in a week where Geno could see time.

But since he is ready, this is a chance to work with his receivers to try and get their timing down and build chemistry.