Pete Carroll gets his guy as Raiders trade for Geno Smith

One of the biggest questions going into the off-season for the Las Vegas Raiders is who will be under center for the 2025 season? That question was answered by a familiar face of Raiders Head Coach Pete Carroll in Geno Smith. Las Vegas gave up a 2025 third-round pick (92nd overall) for Smith. 

Smith is someone Carroll believes in. Smith was once a 2nd round pick that struggled getting playing time. He primarily served as a backup. In 2022 Carroll gave Smith the opportunity to start after replacing Russell Wilson. Smith rewarded that trust with a pro bowl season and NFL Comeback Player of the Year.  Smith had a good season in 2024. Smith, who went 28-24 as Seattle’s starter. Smith threw for a career high 4,320 yards with 21 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions. He also completed a career-high 70.4 percent of his passes last season.

Reports started to surface that Smith wanted a new deal from Seattle. He has one year and $31 million left on his contract. His contract talks with Seattle hit a snag. So,

the Raiders came calling. In addition to giving up a premium pick, Smith will likely cost a lot as he wants a new contract, reportedly in the $45 million a season range. Smith, who will turn 35 in October, won’t be a long-term answer for the Raiders and they will likely need to draft a quarterback soon. However, Smith serves as a good bridge option.