Jets QB Cade Klubnik Gives Team Early Hope with Strong Performance

News ArticlePublishedAug 16, 2026 at 10:17 PM EDTCade Klubnik couldn't have asked for a much better introduction to the NFL. The rookie quarterback wasn't originally expected to start the Jets' preseason opener, but Geno Smith's sore ankle changed those plans and gave Klubnik a chance much sooner than expected.He made the most of it. Klubnik guided the New York Jets to two scoring drives in his NFL debut, completing five of seven passes for 56 yards. He connected twice with tight end Mason Taylor, while Garrett Wilson and Omar Cooper Jr. also caught passes from the rookie.For a quarterback making his first appearance, Klubnik looked comfortable enough to give the Jets something to feel good about. He also became just the third rookie quarterback in Jets history to start a preseason opener,