Cade Klubnik impressed during the Jets’ rookie minicamp.
Frank Franklin II / AP
The New York Jets’ offseason program is moving at full speed. Their two-day rookie minicamp concluded on Saturday. While it’s hard to read too much into these light sessions, the team did sign a tryout player—veteran offensive lineman Landon Young—and fourth-round rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik is quickly winning over fans.
As the Jets shift focus to OTAs, where rookies and veterans will share the practice field for the first time, let’s examine some winners and losers from New York’s offseason based on their moves—and non-moves—in free agency and the draft.
**Winner: QB Cade Klubnik**
Many Jets fans were skeptical when general manager Darren Mougey traded up in the fourth round to select Klubnik. Less than a month later, the rookie is changing minds. He threw the ball well during the media-open portions of rookie minicamp—on Friday, his only incompletions came on drops. He displayed accuracy on intermediate and deep throws, though it’s worth noting the pace was closer to a walkthrough than a full-speed practice. Still, plenty of Jets quarterback draft picks have failed to impress even in this setting.
Then came word that Klubnik gathered the team’s rookies at the hotel last week to run plays in a weight room that was barely big enough to fit everyone. Receivers ended up running “three-yard routes,” Klubnik admitted, “but it’s better than nothing.” He spoke to media on Friday and explained his rough 2025 season at Clemson, saying he battled ankle and wrist injuries throughout the year. The ankle issue was so severe he limped around the facility and had to take the elevator because stairs were too painful.
“I really learned how to face adversity and attack it head-on,” Klubnik said. “Because of that, I’m thankful. If I’d had the year I dreamed of, I don’t think I’d be as prepared as I am now. I learned how to get up every day even when the goal I was chasing wasn’t there anymore.”
The word “aura” has popped up—even from running back Breece Hall—after a slow-motion video of Klubnik walking out to practice circulated online. Meanwhile, the Jets’ deliberate pace in pursuing another veteran backup suggests they’re giving Klubnik a real shot at the No. 2 quarterback role behind Geno Smith. They’ve explored adding veterans like Carson Wentz and Russell Wilson but haven’t been aggressive. They could still sign someone, but for now Klubnik will get valuable reps during OTAs.
“He’s a very smart guy,” Jets coach Aaron Glenn said. “We’re going to push him and see where he’s at, how he operates in our offense. He was a guy we targeted, we’re happy we got him, and we’re looking forward to training camp.”
**Winner: QB Geno Smith**
It’s been noted that the Jets are building a strong supporting cast for whoever lines up under center in 2027. But what about the current starting quarterback? Smith has quietly benefited from the team’s offseason moves. The offensive line has been reinforced, the receiving corps added depth, and the defense remains formidable. Smith’s leadership and familiarity with the system give him a clear edge entering the season. With a revamped offensive scheme and a healthy supporting cast, he’s positioned to have a productive year—something that might have been overlooked amid the excitement over Klubnik.