In a stunning move, the Las Vegas Raiders have acquired quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks, reuniting him with newly appointed head coach Pete Carroll, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler on Friday. The deal, which sees the Raiders send a 2025 third-round pick (92nd overall) to Seattle, marks a new chapter for Smith as he joins his fourth NFL team.
Trade Details and Financial Implications
Smith, 34, has one year remaining on his contract worth $31 million, which the Raiders will fully take on, according to ESPN’s Brady Henderson. The trade allows the Seahawks to clear $31 million in salary cap space but leaves them with $13.5 million in dead money.
This marks the end of Smith’s six-year tenure in Seattle, where he resurrected his career, earning two Pro Bowl selections and helping the Seahawks remain competitive in the NFC.
Smith’s Performance in Seattle
Smith had a strong 2024 season, completing 70.4% of his passes for 4,320 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. He led four game-winning drives, tying Patrick Mahomes for the most in the NFL over the last two seasons. However, his 15 interceptions were the third-most in the league, including four in the red zone, the highest in the NFL.
Despite these numbers, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald had publicly backed Smith as the team’s starting quarterback. However, as contract extension talks stalled, Las Vegas stepped in to strike a deal.
Raiders’ Quarterback Situation and Future Outlook
The Raiders struggled with quarterback play in 2024, finishing 4-13 while rotating between Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell, and Desmond Ridder. Smith is now expected to be the team’s seventh starting quarterback since the franchise moved on from Derek Carr in 2022.
Las Vegas’ general manager John Spytek emphasized the team’s need to find stability under center, stating during the NFL Scouting Combine that the Raiders were “exploring every avenue” to improve their quarterback situation. With Smith now in the fold, Las Vegas is making a clear push to contend in 2025.
Seahawks’ Next Move: DK Metcalf and QB Search
The Seahawks are also making big roster moves beyond Smith’s departure. Star wide receiver DK Metcalf has requested a trade, and veteran receiver Tyler Lockett was released earlier this week. The Seahawks are reportedly in talks with multiple teams, including the Raiders, about a potential Metcalf deal.
With Smith gone, Seattle is left with Sam Howell and Jaren Hall at quarterback but is expected to target a veteran QB in free agency. Options could include Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, or a possible reunion with Russell Wilson.
Pete Carroll’s “Win-Now” Mentality in Las Vegas
Since Carroll took over as Raiders head coach in February, he has emphasized winning immediately rather than undergoing a full rebuild.
“We are trying to take it as far as we can as soon as we possibly can,” Carroll said at the Combine. “I’m not looking for a grace period. I don’t think that way at all.”
Carroll has long been a strong supporter of Smith, calling him “one of my all-time favorite guys” in 2023. Now, the veteran coach will look to recreate the success they had in Seattle, but with a new supporting cast in Las Vegas.
Can Smith Lead the Raiders Back to the Playoffs?
The Raiders have several offensive weapons to support Smith, including star tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, who recorded his first career 1,000-yard season in 2024. However, Las Vegas still has significant roster holes to fill, especially on the offensive line and running back positions.
While Smith is an upgrade over their previous quarterbacks, he will need to cut down on turnovers and stay consistent for the Raiders to challenge for a playoff spot in 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Geno Smith trade and other NFL offseason moves.