The Las Vegas Raiders Part Ways with Geno Smith: What’s Next for All Involved?
The Las Vegas Raiders are making significant changes this offseason, parting ways with quarterback Geno Smith after just one tumultuous season. League sources have confirmed that Smith is expected to be released, marking a sharp turn from the initial optimism that surrounded his arrival.
A Challenging Season for Smith
Geno Smith’s tenure with the Raiders began with potential, having been acquired from the Seattle Seahawks and signed to a two-year extension. However, the 2026 season turned out to be a disappointment, with Smith throwing an NFL-worst 17 interceptions over 15 starts—an alarming statistic that underscored the difficulties he faced. The Raiders finished the season with a dismal 3-14 record, earning them the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Smith’s struggles were compounded by injuries, as he missed crucial games late in the season due to a shoulder issue and an ankle sprain. His record as a starter for the Raiders was a stark 2-13, with losses in his final nine appearances. The pressures of the job began to weigh heavily, leading to the dismissal of head coach Pete Carroll after just one year at the helm.
Comparing Past Success with Current Bumps
Before joining the Raiders, Smith experienced a revival with the Seahawks, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2022 and 2023. He led the league in completion percentage at 69.8 percent and racked up impressive stats, including 4,282 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. Seattle’s decision to pivot to Sam Darnold last offseason was a decisive one; Darnold not only led the Seahawks to a remarkable 14-3 record but also secured the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship. It was evident that the system and support around Smith were not as favorable in Las Vegas.
Future Prospects: Where Does Smith Go from Here?
With his release imminent, the question arises: what’s next for Geno Smith? Despite a lackluster season, he remains a viable option in a free-agent quarterback market filled with uncertainties. His previous successes suggest that he still has something to offer, making him an enticing prospect for teams in need of a signal-caller.
At 35 years old and having just come off a challenging campaign, Smith’s next contract is likely to be at or near the league minimum. This financial factor could indeed make him an attractive option for teams seeking experienced quarterback play without breaking the bank.
Potential Landing Spots
Several teams are already keeping an eye on Smith’s situation. The New York Jets, where Smith began his career, are reportedly interested in bringing him back as a potential starter. This would not only be a full-circle moment for Smith but could also provide the Jets with a capable, albeit experienced, quarterback option. The Miami Dolphins could also be a fit, especially if they fail to secure another option like Malik Willis. Smith’s Florida roots add to the narrative, making it a logical choice.
The Minnesota Vikings may also enter the conversation, particularly if they find themselves in a bind with their current QB situation. Each of these potential landing spots demonstrates how Smith could still find his footing in the NFL.
A Look Back: Stat Sheet vs. Situation
While Smith’s statistical performance in recent seasons shows he’s capable of being a solid starter—ranking fourth in passing yards, eighth in touchdown passes, and achieving the best completion percentages during certain stretches—his stint with the Raiders has presented an undeniable hurdle. The prevailing belief in league circles is that the environment in which he played had more to do with his struggles than his abilities as a quarterback.
With the Raiders looking to rebuild, their new direction includes using their No. 1 draft pick to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana. This decision will add another layer of complexity to Smith’s already challenging exit from Las Vegas.
The landscape ahead looks promising for the veteran quarterback as teams evaluate their needs heading into free agency, keeping the door open for opportunities to revive his career post-Raiders.