Jets rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik missed another practice Tuesday with back soreness, continuing an absence that has kept him off the field through Organized Team Activities.
Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed that Klubnik was still not practicing but indicated the fourth-round pick from Clemson could return soon. The Jets drafted Klubnik hoping to evaluate him during the offseason program. So far, they have not had that chance.
With Klubnik sidelined, Bailey Zappe is currently slotted as the backup quarterback behind starter Geno Smith. Klubnik could compete for that job, but missing practice time now puts him at a disadvantage heading into training camp.
Klubnik entered the draft cycle a year ago with expectations of going in the first round. His final college season at Clemson was disappointing, and his stock dropped. The Jets selected him in the fourth round believing he has upside, but they need to see him perform on the field before drawing conclusions.
The fourth quarterback on the roster is Brady Cook, who went undrafted last year and made the team. Cook started four games for the Jets, all of which they lost. He threw two touchdown passes and seven interceptions in those starts.
The Jets have not set a timetable for Klubnik's return, but Glenn's comments suggest the team expects him back on the practice field in the near term. How much time he can recover before training camp opens will shape how the quarterback competition unfolds.
