Fantasy Upside
The Jets want Geno Smith to succeed so they will give him an opportunity to win the starting job. They are hoping new offensive coordinator Chan Gailey can deliver some of his quarterback magic and help Smith find his way. Smith does have some physical abilities including mobility and a strong arm, so New York thinks those things can help him be successful. The Jets also went in the offseason and brought in better skill players to help their QB.
Fantasy Downside
Smith's numbers through his first two seasons have not been very good. He has thrown 25 TDs and 34 INTs while averaging only 189 yards per game. Smith is still having trouble with his reads, accuracy and suffers from a lack of confidence. There is plenty of downside for the former second round pick.
Bottom Line
There is a good chance Smith will be the starter come Week 1. But the leash will be short. With a veteran in Ryan Fitzpatrick breathing down his neck, Smith could feel the pressure, and we have seen adversely affect him in the past. There is no reason to draft him because of all the uncertainty.
UPDATE:
Geno Smith sustained a broken jaw when Ikemefuna Enemkpali punched the Jets QB. Smith will be out 6 to 10 weeks. Obviously, Smith was not an impact fantasy player before the incident, but now he will not even be discussed until it's closer to his return. Ryan Fitzpatrick will become the starter and if he has some success, we might not see Smith on the field as Jet again.
