Smith close to starting job for Jets

Geno Smith is ready to go. Rex Ryan and the New York Jets are waiting to announce a starting quarterback for their season opener, but all signs are pointing to Smith being under center against Tampa Bay.

Mark Sanchez, who appeared in good shape to win the job in preseason, did not practice while recovering from a right shoulder injury that could keep him sidelined a few weeks. Neither Sanchez nor Ryan acknowledged whether the quarterback was even able to throw at practice.

Still, the Jets signed veteran Brady Quinn yesterday as insurance in case Sanchez is sidelined.

And Darrelle Revis likely will make his Buccaneers debut against his old Jets team. The three-time All-Pro cornerback has been practicing without any reported setbacks.

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said that Robert Griffin III will be under center for the Monday night opener against the Eagles. Griffin had major knee surgery just days after he was injured in a playoff loss in January.

Jaguars quarterback Blaine Gabbert could be ready to start in Sunday’s opener. Gabbert suffered a hairline fracture of the thumb on his throwing hand in preseason.

The Bengals signed All-Pro defensive tackle Geno Atkins to a five-year contract extension through 2018.

Heath Miller, yet to practice with the Steelers, took the next step in the rehabilitation process after right knee surgery some eight months ago when the tight end was taken off the physically unable to perform list.

The Panthers signed former Rams starting safety Quintin Mikell and placed backup safety Haruki Nakamura on injured reserve with a concussion.

The 49ers signed wide receiver Chris Harper to a three-year contract. Harper was released by division rival Seattle.

The Packers signed veteran quarterback Seneca Wallace just days after he was released by San Francisco, Green Bay’s openinggame opponent.

The Bears acquired tight end Dante Rosario from the Cowboys for a 2014 seventh-round pick.

The Bills signed veteran safety Jim Leonhard.