Geno won’t explain latest bad practice
Geno Smith’s uneven summer continued Tuesday, with the backup quarterback struggling so mightily during practice that he slammed his helmet to the ground. Smith was almost intercepted multiple times, was inaccurate and fumbled a few snaps.
Smith again declined to speak to reporters following several stories early last week, including one in The Post, about the one-year anniversary of his jaw getting broken by IK Enemkpali. Smith was booed in the preseason opener Thursday against the Jaguars, and declined to be interviewed afterward, a violation of NFL policy.
Smith received less reps than fellow quarterback Bryce Petty, but coach Todd Bowles said that was more to get a better look at Petty. On Saturday, Bowles said there is no competition for the backup job behind starter Ryan Fitzpatrick.
“We like to mix and match people to see how they match up and play,” Bowles said, referring to Petty getting more reps than Smith. “A lot of guys are put first, second and third team. That doesn’t mean anything.”
Bowles said all four quarterbacks “have to be ready to play” in Friday’s second preseason game against the Redskins, but he wouldn’t reveal his plans for the game.
Muhammad Wilkerson, returning from a broken leg, had his first full practice of training camp after coming off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list last Tuesday, taking part in 11-on-11 team drills with both the first and second team. Bowles, however, said he isn’t sure if Wilkerson will play Friday.
“He ran around fine, but he’s still got some ways to go before he gets in shape,” Bowles said.
Bra ndon Marsha l l missed practice for what Bowles called “an excused absence,” and could be away Wednesday also. He still is expected to play Friday. ... The Jets signed former Bears running back Antone Smith and placed running back Bernard Pierce (hamstring) on injured reserve. Smith practiced with his new teammates immediately.