New York Jets rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik had a rough Week 2 of the NFL preseason, and it’s putting their backup QB plans under the microscope. Klubnik only completed 10-of-14 passes for 75 yards against a tough Pittsburgh Steelers defense, adding only 16 rushing yards while getting sacked twice. The box score might not look terrible at first glance, but the clear word coming out is he wasn’t sharp, and that’s a serious problem for the Jets.
Klubnik’s Early Struggles Have the Jets Sweating
The former Clemson standout’s performance in Week 2 clearly has the Jets brass worried. After his preseason debut, there was hope, but facing a better Steelers defense, Klubnik looked shaky. This isn’t merely about one game, right? This is about whether the kid can step up if anything happens to starter Geno Smith. Right now, it doesn’t look like Klubnik is ready to be the Jets’ No. 2 quarterback, and that opens up a massive hole for them. You absolutely need a reliable veteran behind your starter in this league, and the clock is ticking to find one before initial 53-man rosters are finalized.
Andy Dalton’s Philly Fizzle Could Be the Jets’ Gain
Enter Andy Dalton, who is reportedly losing the backup job battle over in Philadelphia. His numbers from this past weekend are jarring: a meager 3-of-10 passing. That’s a tough look for a guy who’s been around the league. Meanwhile, Tanner McKee, the younger quarterback, was “outstanding,” ripping off 16-of-22 completions for 173 yards and two touchdowns. The Eagles also have a rookie, Cole Payton, who they plan to roster as their No. 3, leaving zero room for Dalton on the roster. He’s about to be traded or released, and the Jets better be paying attention to this unfolding situation.
This is exactly the kind of move the Jets need to make if they want some insurance for Geno Smith. Dalton might be struggling right now, but he’s got experience, and that’s something Klubnik doesn’t have much of yet. The next few days are going to be wild across the league as teams finalize their rosters. Will the Jets pull the trigger on Dalton, or will they roll the dice with a rookie who doesn’t appear ready for the critical No. 2 spot? They need a definitive plan, and they need it fast.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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