Geno Smith was drafted with the 39th overall pick in the second round by the New York Jets.
Smith was in attendance for the first round of the draft as many analysts and scouts expected him to be taken that night but he was not selected. He initially planned to return home but later decided to attend the second day of the draft and ultimately the Jets selected him.
Smith was at Radio City Music Hall when his name was called. His walk toward NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell represented the end of a long wait and the beginning of a new era for the Jets.
He signed a four-year, $5 million contract on July 22, 2013 with approximately $690,000 in workout bonuses.
Smith made his professional debut on August 9, 2013 in the first preseason game against the Detroit Lions. He completed 6-of-7 passes for 47 yards but left the game due to an ankle injury in the second quarter.
He was named the team’s starting quarterback on September 4 after Sanchez suffered a shoulder injury against the Giants.
Following two inconsistent seasons as the Jets starting quarterback, Smith eventually lost his starting position due to injuries in his final two years with the team.