New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith has begun wearing red-tinted contact lenses during training camp to reduce glare on the practice field. Smith explained on Thursday that the lenses help block sunlight, improving visibility during workouts. The use of red contacts is not new to the Jets; former wide receiver Santonio Holmes wore similar lenses during games. Smith, who played alongside Holmes in 2013, said eye specialists recommended the contact lenses, describing the tinted vision as giving the environment a yellowish hue.
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn commented on the competitive nature of practice sessions, noting the constant battle between the offense and defense. Glenn said he often ends these sessions frustrated because success for one unit usually means less effectiveness from the other. He emphasized that the players maintain a high level of game-like intensity, stressing the importance of focus on every repetition.
Injury updates from the camp included rookie cornerback D’Angelo Ponds, who has yet to participate fully in practice due to a calf injury but was seen working with trainers on the side field. Glenn remains optimistic about Ponds’ recovery, suggesting the player should be ready to return within a few weeks. Meanwhile, rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq will miss several weeks following a setback in his recovery from hernia surgery, although Glenn expressed confidence that Sadiq will be available for the regular season opener.
Other players absent from Thursday’s practice were defensive end Kingsley Enagbare (ankle), running back Isaiah Davis (knee), and cornerback Nahshon Wright (hip). Glenn indicated that Davis might be sidelined for multiple weeks.
The Jets made a roster move on Thursday, claiming defensive tackle Junior Tafuna off waivers from the Houston Texans and waiving defensive lineman Patrick Jenkins in a corresponding transaction.
On the field, wide receiver Garrett Wilson continued to demonstrate his developing chemistry with Smith, notably beating cornerback Brandon Stephens during a red zone drill to catch a 25-yard touchdown pass. Rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. had a less successful moment, dropping a pass during a 7-on-7 drill, reflecting an uneven training camp performance. The upcoming joint practices and preseason games are expected to provide Cooper with additional opportunities to prove himself.
The kicking competition remains closely contested between Jason Sanders and Cade York. On Thursday, Sanders made 5 of 8 attempts, missing from 47, 51, and 53 yards, while York connected on 5 of 7, missing from 52 and 53 yards.
Overall, the Jets are focusing on maintaining intensity and managing injuries as they prepare for the upcoming season.