PHOTO CREDIT: USATSI
The Las Vegas Raiders have acquired quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick (92nd overall), sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler on Friday. The move reunites Smith with head coach Pete Carroll, who took over in Las Vegas after 14 seasons in Seattle.
Raiders Absorb Smith’s Contract
Smith, 34, has one year and $31 million remaining on his contract, which the Raiders will take on in full, according to ESPN’s Brady Henderson. The Seahawks will save $31 million in cap space but will carry $13.5 million in dead money.
Smith’s Performance in Seattle
In 2024, Smith completed 70.4% of his passes for 4,320 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, leading the Seahawks to a 10-7 record. He broke his own franchise record for passing yards and completion percentage while playing behind a struggling offensive line and inconsistent run game.
Smith led the league with four game-winning drives last season, bringing his two-year total to nine, tied with Patrick Mahomes for the most in that span. His latest came in Week 18 against the Los Angeles Rams.
However, his 15 interceptions were the third most in the NFL, including four in the red zone—the most in the league. His 53.8 QBR (21st overall) was his lowest in three seasons as Seattle’s starter, and he was sacked 50 times, the third-most in the NFL.
Seahawks Move on From Smith
Despite publicly supporting Smith, new Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald ultimately saw the team move in a different direction.
“Geno’s our quarterback,” Macdonald said last month, dismissing speculation about a move. “I don’t understand the conversation. It’s pretty obvious this guy is a heck of a quarterback. He’s our quarterback. We love him. Can’t wait to go to work with him.”
Smith’s 2022 season remains his best as a starter. He made the Pro Bowl, won AP Comeback Player of the Year, and helped Seattle reach the wild-card round after stepping in for Russell Wilson. The Seahawks rewarded him with a three-year, $75 million contract in 2023, which included $30 million in potential incentives. Smith triggered $6 million in escalators last season, increasing his 2025 salary to $31 million.
Smith sought a contract extension last offseason but was denied, as Seattle has a policy of not renegotiating deals with more than one year remaining. The Seahawks explored an extension this offseason, but negotiations stalled, leading to Las Vegas stepping in with a trade offer.
Raiders’ Quarterback Reset
Since Derek Carr’s departure in 2022, the Raiders have struggled to find stability at quarterback. Smith will be the team’s seventh starting QB in three seasons.
Las Vegas rotated through Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell, and Desmond Ridder during a disappointing 4-13 season. Minshew is expected to be released when the new league year begins Wednesday, per ESPN.
Carroll has been vocal about his “win now” approach, saying at the NFL Combine, “We are trying to take it as far as we can as soon as we possibly can.” I’m not looking for a grace period. … I don’t think that way at all.”
General manager John Spytek confirmed the team explored all quarterback options, and despite mentioning O’Connell and Carter Bradley as potential competitors, Smith gives the team an immediate upgrade.
What’s Next for Seattle?
The Seahawks now have Sam Howell and Jaren Hall at quarterback but are expected to pursue a veteran in free agency. The trade comes amid broader roster changes, including Pro Bowl receiver DK Metcalf’s trade request and the release of Tyler Lockett.
The Raiders have also been linked to a potential Metcalf trade, per reports. With talent like Brock Bowers (1,194 yards as a rookie) and Jakobi Meyers (first career 1,000-yard season), adding another playmaker could further strengthen the offense around Smith.
While Smith provides stability for now, Las Vegas still has work to do in building a long-term quarterback plan.
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This report used information from ESPN.
