The Raiders’ Quarterback Solution: Geno Smith Rejoins Pete Carroll in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Raiders have found their answer to the quarterback conundrum for the 2025 season, securing a trade with the Seattle Seahawks for Geno Smith. According to Tashan Reed of The Athletic, the Raiders are parting with a 2025 third-round pick to land Smith. While it remains undisclosed which of their two third-round picks they are sending, the move is a significant one for both teams. At one point, it seemed the Seahawks were committed to retaining Smith, even considering a contract extension as General Manager John Schneider suggested. However, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport notes that negotiations between Smith and the Seahawks stalled, leading to this trade.
Reunion of a Dynamic Duo: Smith and Carroll
This trade marks a reunion for Geno Smith and his former head coach, Pete Carroll, who took over the Raiders in January. Smith’s tenure with Carroll in Seattle was nothing short of a career revival. Over four seasons, including a standout 2021 campaign, Smith reestablished himself as a reliable NFL quarterback. His familiarity with Carroll’s system and approach is a significant asset for the Raiders, providing a seamless transition for both the player and the team. The connection between Smith and Carroll is expected to enhance the Raiders’ offense and stability at the quarterback position.
Addressing the Veteran Market
The Raiders had been exploring the veteran quarterback market, even while eyeing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Vic Tafur of The Athletic highlights that the team’s interest in free agents like Sam Darnold was lukewarm, which likely influenced the decision to pursue Smith. The trade for Smith provides the Raiders with a seasoned veteran who has proven his capability in high-pressure situations, a crucial factor for a team eyeing a competitive season and possibly a playoff run.
Contract and Future Prospects
Geno Smith is entering the final year of his current contract, but the Raiders are optimistic about extending his stay. Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reports that an extension for Smith is “likely to come.” This suggests the Raiders see Smith as more than just a short-term solution but a key player in their long-term plans. Securing an extension would provide both the team and Smith with certainty and stability, fostering a collaborative environment that can lead to sustained success.
The Raidsers’ Quarterback Room
With Smith on board, the Raiders’ quarterback room now includes Aidan O’Connell and 2024 undrafted free agent Carter Bradley. O’Connell, who had been expected to compete for the starting role, will now serve as Smith’s backup. While this may seem like a setback for O’Connell, the experience of learning from a seasoned veteran like Smith could be invaluable for his development. Bradley, a young talent with potential, will also benefit from the presence of a proven leader in Smith.
A Strategic Move for the Raiders
The trade for Geno Smith represents a strategic and calculated move by the Raiders. By acquiring a quarterback with a proven track record and a strong connection to their head coach, the team has addressed one of their most pressing needs. Smith’s experience, leadership, and familiarity with Carroll’s system make him a perfect fit for the Raiders’ 2025 roster. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the addition of Smith is a clear signal of their commitment to building a competitive and cohesive team capable of making a deep playoff run.
