New York Jets assess QB2 race and center depth ahead of 2026 camp

The New York Jets are weighing their quarterback backup options as veteran starter Geno Smith is viewed as a short‑term bridge. The competition for the No. 2 role has narrowed to Bailey Zappe and Cade Klubnik after the earlier contender, rookie Brady Cook, fell out of the race. Zappe brings NFL experience from a four‑game stint covering for an injured Mac Jones, while Klubnik is seen as a high‑upside prospect.

At the offensive line, the Jets retained center Josh Myers on a two‑year, $11 million deal despite his ranking as the league’s second‑worst center last season. The team’s preferred free‑agent target, Ethan Pocic, signed with the Baltimore Ravens, leaving New York without a clear challenger for the centre spot and prompting calls for renewed competition in that position.