Summary

Geno Smith was selected in Round 2 (#39 Overall) in the 2013 Draft out of West Virginia University. Smith was a standout prospect with the Mountaineers, where he threw for 11,662 career yards and 98 touchdowns. Over his NFL career he has thrown for over ~20,900 passing yards and 116 total passing touchdowns and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2022 (NFL Comeback Player of the Year) and 2023. Known for his strong arm, athleticism, and trajectory from journeyman backup to legitimate starter, Smith brings a resilient character, work‑ethic and veteran presence to any locker‑room, but does have record of some unconventional interactions from a quarterback. In 2015 while with the Jets, Smith was punched in the face in the locker room by teammate IK Enenmkpali that left Smith’s jaw fractured and out for several weeks. Smith can be grating in his motivational tactics on the sideline and teammates don’t always respond to his persona.

Strengths

• Excellent arm strength and ability to make all the requisite throws: From intermediate windows to deep post routes. SB Nation

• Good mobility and athleticism for the quarterback position: able to extend plays, scramble when needed, keep drives alive.

• Strong production in recent seasons: Up until landing in Las Vegas, high completion percentages (e.g., ~70.4% in 2024) and yardage totals (4,320 yards in 2024).

• Veteran savvy and resiliency: His career arc shows he can overcome adversity, adapt, and flourish when given an opportunity. golongtd.com

• Quick release and good decision‑making in many instances: He often gets the ball out cleanly and shows the anticipation to hit receivers in stride. This has also waned in Las Vegas with an unusually high turnover-worthy play rate.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency: At times his accuracy dips, mechanics can be erratic, and he has had stretches where he “goes bad”.

• Mechanical flaws: Bounces in the pocket, less‑than‑ideal base, and irregular footwork when under pressure.

• Durability and career‑trajectory concerns: Smith had several years as a backup or injured, and entering the later stages of his career there is risk of decline.

• Turnover risk under pressure: While improved, there remain situations where he holds the ball too long or his reads stall, leading to negative plays. golongtd.com

Fit & Outlook

Smith projects as a veteran starting quarterback who can stabilize a franchise, especially one looking for experience, leadership, and an offense that maximizes his strengths (intermediate‑to‑deep passing, play‑action, quarterback mobility). His profile fits well in an offense that gives protections, uses modern passing concepts, and leans on efficient production rather than requiring sheer rushing dominance from the QB. Looking ahead, his outlook is favourably pragmatic. With his recent high‑level play (including Pro Bowls) and a renewed opportunity, he has shown he can still command a starting role. The key will be for him to minimize his mechanical/accuracy swings, maintain his health and adapt to whatever surrounding talent and scheme are presented. If he remains consistent, he can deliver 3,500+ yards, 25+ touchdowns, and keep turnovers in check — making him a solid starter. However, given his age and past inconsistencies, he may not have a long runway as a high‑ceiling breakout QB, but rather as a high‑floor, dependable veteran leader.