Cade Klubnik sparks Jets' scoring drives in 24-16 loss to Buccaneers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 2:09 AM
Last updated Aug 15, 2026
Cade Klubnik, a rookie quarterback for the New York Jets, led two scoring drives after Geno Smith was scratched due to a sore foot in their preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 14. Starting in place of Smith, Klubnik connected on five of seven passes for 56 yards, with the Jets settling for a field goal and later a touchdown during his time on the field. The Buccaneers, playing their backups, took the lead with a second-half touchdown from Jalon Daniels, who threw for 111 yards and contributed a rushing touchdown. The game concluded with the Jets trailing the Buccaneers 24-16, with Bailey Zappe struggling after Klubnik's departure.
- •Cade Klubnik started for the Jets, replacing injured Geno Smith.
- •Klubnik led the Jets to scores on both of his drives.
- •Buccaneers quarterback Connor Bazelak also started, with backups playing most of the game.
- •Jalon Daniels scored a touchdown for the Buccaneers in his debut.
- •The Jets will face the Steelers on August 21.
- 2:09 AMYahoo Sports — Rookie Cade Klubnik leads 2 scoring drives after Geno Smith is scratched in Jets' 24-16 loss to Bucs
"Rookie fourth-rounder Cade Klubnik led the New York Jets to scores on his two drives after a surprise start in place of Geno Smith in a 24-16 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the preseason opener for both teams Friday night. Klubnik, competing for the No. 2 quarterback job, opened the game under center when Smith was scratched because of a sore foot, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press. Smith was expected to play at least a few snaps, along with the rest of New York's starters.
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