Rex Ryan praises Geno Smith for ‘great’ practice
By Josh Sanchez
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan wasn’t afraid of criticizing rookie quarterback Geno Smith for poor practices in the past, so when Ryan comes forward and praises his team’s second-round pick for having a “great” practice it means something.
When Ryan was discussing recent practices to the media, he let it be known that the rookie is making massive improvements in each session.
“That was a great day. I don’t know if that was his best day, because he’s had a lot of good ones, but he had a great one today,” Ryan said, via Pro Football Talk.
While Ryan is praising Smith, he doesn’t even that Wednesday’s practice was his best.
“I wouldn’t say it was my best day. I think, like I said, overall every single day I’ve been getting better. Whether it’s been a good day or a bad day, it’s about progression,” Smith said.
There have been reports that Smith could win the team’s starting quarterback job with two turnover free quarters in Saturday’s preseason game, so this could also be Ryan pumping up Smith to the media and fan base in case he ends up winning the job.