The Giants' search for Eli Manning's backup quarterback could lead them to someone already familiar with playing in MetLife Stadium.
Former Jets quarterback and free agent Geno Smith is visiting with the Giants on Saturday, multiple league sources told The Record. It's also believed Smith, 26, has interest from other teams, and one of those may end up being the Jets. His preference would be to go somewhere he could compete for a starting job, but the opportunity to learn from Manning and rebuild his reputation in the NFL within the Giants' West Coast offense could be appealing.
Free-agent offensive lineman and former Chargers first-round pick D.J. Fluker is also visiting the Giants in East Rutherford on Saturday. There is reported mutual interest between the two sides, but ESPN also indicated that the Patriots have inquired about Fluker coming to New England for a visit.
Smith, 26, started one game for the Jets in place of Ryan Fitzpatrick in 2016 but tore the ACL in his right knee in that game. Smith has completed 57.9 percent of his passes for 5,962 yards, 28 touchdowns and 36 interceptions. He has good size and is a good athlete with a strong arm, but inaccuracy has led to turnovers and questions about his decision making.
With the Giants, the issue is not whether Smith can emerge as an option to one day become Manning's successor. If he can prove to be a more versatile backup than Ryan Nassib and Josh Johnson _ both of whom are free agents _ then Giants brass could determine Smith is an attractive addition at the right price.
Two Jets have already made the Meadowlands switch within the past year with defensive tackle Damon "Snacks" Harrison earning first-team All-Pro honors last season and wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who signed with the Giants on Wednesday.
