Todd Bowles says Geno Smith still Jets’ No. 2 QB
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. >> Geno Smith remains the New York Jets’ No. 2 quarterback and will play after starter Ryan Fitzpatrick in the preseason game against the Giants on Saturday night.
There had been some uncertainty about the pecking order of the backups after Bryce Petty had a good performance and Smith struggled against Washington. Coach Todd Bowles had also been vague about the situation a few days ago. But Bowles says Tuesday that Smith will be the second quarterback in the game. Fitzpatrick and the starters are expected to play at least through the first half of the Jets’ third preseason game. Smith will then come in, followed by Petty at some point.
“You always prepare the same way,” Smith said after practice Wednesday. “It’s really no different. I’m just continuing to work hard.”
It’s unclear if rookie Christian Hackenberg will see any action this week. The second-round draft pick has not played in New York’s first two games.
Redskins acquire center from Pats
ASHBURN, VA. >> The Washington Redskins have acquired center Bryan Stork from the New England Patriots for an undisclosed draft pick.
Stork appeared in 21 games the past two seasons, but started just six in 2015 after spending time on the physically unable to perform list with concussion and neck issues. The 25-year-old started the Super Bowl for New England two seasons ago.
Stork, a fourth-round pick, 105th overall, in the 2014 draft, went into training camp in competition for the starting center job with the Patriots, but suffered his fourth concussion in four years. The trade opens the door for second-year player David Andrews, who replaced Stork for 10 games last season.
Jags’ Blackmon gets suspended sentence
ARDMORE, OKLA. >> Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon has been given a one year suspended sentence and probation for driving under the influence in Oklahoma.
Blackmon was sentenced Wednesday in Carter County District Court in his hometown of Ardmore.
The Oklahoman reported that Blackmon declined comment.
Authorities arrested the former Oklahoma State University standout in December after an officer said he smelled alcohol in Blackmon’s vehicle.
Blackmon pleaded guilty to the charge in April and his original sentencing scheduled in June was delayed while he completed court-ordered alcohol abuse courses.
His probation includes random drug testing, $1,000 in fines and 100 hours community service work and state supervision requiring monthly check-ins with the district attorney’s office.