Do Jets need to add a veteran backup quarterback or can Cade Klubnik handle it?
Rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik’s performance in the Jets’ final preseason game, a 23-6 loss to the Giants on Friday night, could raise questions internally about whether they should add a veteran to back up Geno Smith.
Klubnik completed 6 of 13 passes for 59 yards and one interception in six series. He led one touchdown drive on the Jets’ first possession, but they ran the ball on every play.
On his interception, Klubnik underthrew 6-7 tight end Jelani Woods and was picked off by Zaire Barnes, a former Jets draft pick. The Jets also were flagged for a delay-of-game penalty with Klubnik running the offense.
Klubnik started for Smith, who was among the many starters who were rested for this last tuneup. Klubnik will be Smith’s backup unless the Jets acquire a veteran in the coming days. Teams have to pare their rosters to 53 by Sunday.
“We’ll take a look at that and we’ll evaluate it and we’ll make the right decision going forward,” coach Aaron Glenn said.
Jets edge rusher Joseph Ossai, making his preseason debut, left the game with a foot injury. Backup rookie guard Anez Cooper injured his shoulder and was ruled out very quickly.
Running back Chip Trayanum left the field on a cart after suffering a neck injury on the final play of the first half. He was taken to an area hospital. The Jets said he was awake and alert and had movement of his extremities. Many players stayed on the field instead of going in the locker room for halftime while Trayanum was being attended by trainers.
Qwan’tez Stiggers, who passed out on the sideline less than three weeks ago because of a concussion, broke up a pass that was intercepted by Marcellino McCrary-Ball and recovered a fumble in his first preseason game. Stiggers also committed a 15-yard special teams penalty that led to a Giants touchdown.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
