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The Las Vegas Raiders plan to release quarterback Geno Smith before the start of the new league year, unless a trade emerges, according to multiple reports.
Short-Lived Las Vegas Tenure
Moving on from Smith will free approximately $8 million in salary cap space for the Raiders, though the franchise will absorb roughly $18.5 million in dead money. The decision comes just one year after Las Vegas acquired Smith from the Seattle Seahawks and signed him to a two-year, $75 million extension.
Smith earned $40 million during the 2025 season, all fully guaranteed. However, releasing him before the third day of the 2026 league year allows the team to avoid an additional $8.5 million in guaranteed money.
The veteran quarterback struggled throughout his lone season with the Raiders. In 15 starts, Smith threw for 3,025 yards with 19 touchdowns but also led the league with 17 interceptions. He finished the year ranked 27th in QBR (34.1) and missed two games due to injury as Las Vegas limped to a 3–14 record.
Offensive Struggles Defined the Season
Smith faced significant pressure behind an inconsistent offensive line. He absorbed 55 sacks and dealt with 194 total pressures, contributing to the offense’s instability. The situation worsened when offensive coordinator Chip Kelly was dismissed after Week 11, while standout rookie tight end Brock Bowers battled a knee injury early in the season.
The disappointing campaign ultimately cost head coach Pete Carroll his job after just one season in Las Vegas, despite his prior success with Smith in Seattle.
Raiders Eyeing a Quarterback of the Future
With the Raiders holding the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the franchise will select Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana Hoosiers football to a national championship.
General manager John Spytek has indicated the team may still pursue a veteran quarterback, potentially allowing Mendoza to develop while competing with returning backup Aidan O’Connell for playing time in 2026.
For Smith, the move sends the former Pro Bowler back into free agency as he looks for another opportunity late in his career after an uneven year in Las Vegas.
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