Jason Smith: Newest Jet Appreciates 'Fresh Start'

After three unsuccessful seasons with the st. Louis Rams, Jason Smith is happy to be a member of the New York Jets.

"I would say a fresh start is good for a lot of people. Obviously, at the end of day, I appreciate everything that Billy Devaney, Coach (Steve) Spagnuolo (and) Steve Loney (did, when they) brought me in. Coach Fisher gave me another chance this last offseason and Coach (Paul) Boudreau (and) Mr. (Stan) Kroenke. I appreciate everything that the Rams did for me as far as allowing me to be a part of the organization," Smith said. "It’s kind of like everything else. It’s kind of like turning a new page of the chapter. I’m happy to be a Jet."

[Related: New IR, Trade Deadline rules OK'd]

Smith, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, was acquired by the Jets this week in a trade of unproductive offensive tackles that saw Wayne Hunter go to St. Louis.

Smith has a history of concussions, suffering one in his rookie season and landing on Injured Reserve after just six games last season due to to another one.

"No man can control injury. I learned that God has all control over injuries. You can make all of these plans about how you’re going to play and how the season is going to go, but when you get an injury and can’t play, there went all your plans. I learned (to) just focus on today," Smith said on Wednesday.

Head coach Rex Ryan said Smith might play a few snaps Thursday against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Jets final preseason opponent.