New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith is day-to-day with a sore ankle sustained during Wednesday's joint practice with the Buccaneers, forcing him to be scratched from Friday's preseason opener.

Coach Aaron Glenn described the injury as nothing to be alarmed about, though he opted for caution. The absence gave rookie Cade Klubnik his first start, making him just the third rookie QB in franchise history to open a preseason game.

Klubnik impressed, completing 5-of-7 passes for 56 yards and leading the first-team offense to a field goal and touchdown in just two series. His poise and quick adjustment to playing with starters earned praise from Glenn.

The performance strengthened Klubnik's case as the likely No. 2 quarterback, with Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook also competing for the role. Zappe struggled with two interceptions, including a pick-6, while Cook was ineffective in mop-up duty.