The Las Vegas Raiders are poised to move on from quarterback Geno Smith after just one season, according to multiple reports. The team is expected to release the 35-year-ancient veteran before the start of the new league year on Wednesday, marking a swift end to a reunion with head coach Pete Carroll that never quite materialized as hoped.
Smith arrived in Las Vegas via a trade with the Seattle Seahawks last year, with the Raiders giving up a 2025 third-round draft pick to acquire him. The move was intended to bring stability to the quarterback position, but Smith struggled through a challenging season, ultimately leading to this decision. The Raiders’ plans now shift toward evaluating other options, potentially including a high draft pick.
Contract Implications and Financial Impact
Prior to the trade, Smith signed a two-year, $75 million contract extension with the Raiders, earning $40 million during the 2025 season. Releasing Smith will result in an $18.5 million dead cap hit for the Raiders, but will also provide $8 million in salary cap relief, as reported by multiple sources. The team will also avoid paying an additional $8.5 million in guaranteed money that was scheduled for payment on the third day of the league year.
A Hard Season for the Veteran Quarterback
Smith’s 2025 season was marked by inconsistency and turnovers. He led the NFL with 17 interceptions despite missing two games due to injury. He completed 67.4% of his passes for 3,205 yards with 19 touchdowns. This performance stands in stark contrast to his 2023 season with the Seahawks, where he earned Pro Bowl honors.
This situation marks the second consecutive offseason where new head coach Klint Kubiak has moved on from Smith. Kubiak was the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator when they traded Smith last year, and now finds himself in a similar position with the Raiders.
Potential Draft Implications and Future Outlook
With Smith’s departure, the Raiders could turn their attention to the 2026 NFL Draft. The team could potentially select Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. However, minority owner Tom Brady and general manager John Spytek have publicly expressed a preference for not immediately starting a rookie quarterback, suggesting a more cautious approach.
Brady and Spytek have repeatedly stated their belief in a more measured development path for young quarterbacks, making Mendoza’s immediate starting status uncertain. The Raiders will likely explore veteran options as well, seeking a bridge quarterback while Mendoza acclimates to the NFL.
The Raiders’ decision to release Geno Smith signals a clear shift in direction for the franchise. While Smith brought experience and a proven track record, his performance in Las Vegas did not meet expectations. The team now faces the challenge of finding a long-term solution at the quarterback position, a task that will undoubtedly shape their future success.
What comes next for both Geno Smith and the Raiders remains to be seen. Smith will likely seek an opportunity with a team in need of a veteran quarterback, while the Raiders will navigate the draft and free agency to rebuild their quarterback room. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
