A Busy Week for the Seahawks and the Raiders
It has been a whirlwind of activity for both the Seattle Seahawks and the Las Vegas Raiders this week. The two former AFC West rivals, now in different conferences, engaged in some significant transactions, with the most notable being the trade of quarterback Geno Smith from Seattle to Las Vegas for a third-round pick on Friday night. This trade, while already noteworthy, is even more intriguing with the added context provided by Albert Breer of SI.com.
The Initial Talks and the Rejected Proposal
According to Breer, the negotiations that led to the Smith trade began with a much different proposal from the Seahawks. Seattle initially offered Geno Smith and receiver D.K. Metcalf to the Raiders in exchange for defensive end Maxx Crosby. However, the Raiders swiftly dismissed this idea, stating that Crosby was not available for trade. This early rejection highlights the Raiders’ strong commitment to their defensive linemen, particularly Maxx Crosby, who is a cornerstone of their defense.
Maxx Crosby’s New Contract and Its Timing
The timing of these talks is significant. Breer’s report indicates that the initial discussions began even before Wednesday, when Maxx Crosby signed a contract extension with the Raiders. This new deal makes Crosby the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The timing suggests that the Raiders were already exploring trade possibilities but were firm in their stance on keeping Crosby, a player they value immensely. This extension underscores the Raiders’ belief in Crosby’s future with the team and their intention to build around him.
The Seahawks’ Plan for Replacing Smith
The rejection of the initial offer and the eventual trade of Geno Smith alone highlight the Seahawks’ strategic thinking. It is clear that Seattle has a well-defined plan in place to replace Smith. While the exact identity of Smith’s successor remains a mystery, there are strong indications pointing to Sam Darnold as the most likely candidate. Darnold, a former first-round pick with the New York Jets, has the experience and potential that the Seahawks might find appealing.
Alternative Options and the Upcoming Decision
However, the Seahawks are not limiting themselves to just one option. Other possibilities include players like Daniel Jones, the quarterback for the New York Giants. Jones has shown flashes of brilliance and could be an intriguing choice. The Seahawks’ front office, known for their thorough and strategic approach, will carefully weigh their options before making a final decision. Given the urgency and the need to solidify their quarterback position, it is expected that the team will announce a new quarterback no later than Monday.
A Critical Week for Both Teams
This critical week for both the Seahawks and the Raiders demonstrates the dynamic and fast-paced nature of NFL front offices. The quick and decisive actions taken by both teams highlight the importance of adaptability and strategic foresight in the league. As the dust settles on the Smith trade and the Seahawks move forward with their plans, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how these moves impact both teams in the upcoming season. The next few days promise to be exciting, with the potential for more significant announcements and trades as the NFL landscape continues to evolve.
