Jets rookie TE Kenyon Sadiq makes admission about QB Geno Smith

The New York Jets selected former Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the No. 16 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. The versatile playmaker should immediately add a presence to the Jets' offense. Sadiq could also build a special connection with starting quarterback Geno Smith, who he grew up admiring.

Sadiq played college football in the Pacific Northwest from 2023-25. He would have watched Smith playing for his local Seattle Seahawks as a result. At rookie minicamp this past weekend, Sadiq explained how he grew to love Smith's game.

"I'm a Seahawks fan, well, not anymore," Sadiq joked with reporters. "Being a West Coast guy, I was a Seahawks fan. So of course I watched him [Geno Smith]. He's a great quarterback who did great things in Seattle. He's a veteran. It'll be great to get around him and pick his brain a little bit. He's been around the game for a long time."

Sadiq would have been joining the Oregon program when Smith won NFL Comeback Player of the Year with the Seahawks.

Now, Sadiq is tasked with developing on-field chemistry with a quarterback he once admired from afar. The former Ducks standout will add a layer of playmaking ability to Frank Reich's offense. Sadiq's ability to thrive as a pass catcher and play as an in-line blocker should make Smith's life easier at quarterback.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets rookie TE Kenyon Sadiq grew up admiring QB Geno Smith