Things to watch during Jets' 2026 preseason slate

The New York Jets begin their 2026 preseason Friday night when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with two more August games before the regular-season opener on Sept. 13. The story focuses on five early watch points. First, with Aaron Glenn calling defensive plays, New York is expected to emphasize size on early downs to stop the run and stay on schedule on third down, likely using more odd-man fronts. Second, second overall pick David Bailey is expected to press the pocket after strong training-camp showings, including work against Bucs tackle Luke Goedeke in joint practices. Third, this is also Geno Smith’s first on-field action for the Jets in nearly a decade, potentially giving early looks at targets such as Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, Mason Taylor, and Isaiah Williams. The article also flags injury-management decisions—T’Vondre Sweat and Joseph Ossai are out—and the ongoing kicker competition, with Cade York and Jason Sanders still not clearly separating.