Smith was inconsistent in his 2025 reunion with Pete Carroll, in part due to a struggling offense. In 15 games (2-13 record) for Las Vegas, Smith completed 67.4% of his attempts with a league-leading 3,025 passing yards, 19 touchdowns and 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’s trade for Smith gives the lads a chance to start with the Gang Green following Glenn’s endorsement.
Despite going 3-14 in his first season as the Jets’ head coach, Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are confident a turnaround will be quick. During free agency, the Jets drafted running back Breece Hall, acquired veteran T’Vondre Sweat in a trade, acquired linebacker Demario Davis and traded for five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Being too youthful at times hurt the Jets last season. That’s why Glenn and Mougey added veterans 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 had maybe the second youngest team in the NFL. This year we had a stream of veteran guys coming in,” Glenn said. “So, absolutely, it was intentional. The coaching staff was intentional. The team structure is intentional and everything we do is intentional, but it’s also a process.”
That process will continue in April’s draft, where the Jets have two first-round picks (Nos. 2 and 16) and a total of nine picks.
Although Smith has been declared a starter through 2026, he will be 36 next season. A lot of capital could cause the Jets to look at their future at the position.
Asked specifically about picking a young QB, however, Glenn emphasized continuing to load up the roster with good players all around.
“We’ve got to come out this year with really good players,” he said, “and that’s all we’re thinking about. Whoever it is.”