In a bold move to bolster their quarterback position, the Las Vegas Raiders have acquired veteran signal-caller Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick, according to reports from The Associated Press. The trade, which was confirmed by a source familiar with the deal, sends the 34-year-old quarterback to Las Vegas, where he will reunite with former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll in a new chapter of his career.
Smith, a two-time Pro Bowl quarterback, has spent the past several seasons with the Seahawks, revitalizing his career after a tumultuous start in the NFL. His move to the Raiders marks a significant change in his trajectory and an important shift for the franchise, which has struggled to find long-term stability at the quarterback position since the retirement of Hall of Famer Derek Carr.
The Raiders have been in need of a steady quarterback after a turbulent season with Jimmy Garoppolo. While Garoppolo was signed to a three-year deal last offseason, his tenure was marked by injuries and inconsistent play. The addition of Smith provides immediate stability for a team that’s looking to remain competitive in a tough AFC West division.
Geno Smith’s Resurgence with the Seahawks
Over the past few seasons, Geno Smith has enjoyed a remarkable career renaissance with the Seahawks. After initially being drafted by the New York Jets in 2013, Smith’s career seemed to stall after a series of injuries and inconsistent play. However, when he took over as the Seahawks’ starting quarterback in 2022, Smith revitalized his career in a major way.
In his first season as the Seahawks’ full-time starter, Smith threw for 4,282 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, earning a spot in the Pro Bowl. In 2023, Smith continued his strong play, passing for 4,320 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. His ability to manage the game and perform in clutch moments has helped Seattle remain competitive in the NFC West, and his leadership has been a big reason why the team reached the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.
Smith’s performance in Seattle made him a valuable asset on the trade market, and the Raiders appear to be betting on his continued success as they enter the 2025 season. His ability to operate a fast-paced offense and make quick, accurate throws will be crucial as the Raiders look to develop their own identity under new head coach Josh McDaniels.
A New Era in Las Vegas
Smith’s arrival in Las Vegas could signal a fresh start for the Raiders’ offense. Reuniting with Pete Carroll, who was Smith’s head coach in Seattle, is a significant factor in this deal. Carroll has been instrumental in Smith’s resurgence, and his mentorship could be a key ingredient in maximizing the veteran quarterback’s skill set in Las Vegas. The Raiders hope that Smith’s experience and poise will be an asset in their pursuit of AFC West contention.
For the Seahawks, this trade opens the door for a new era at quarterback. Smith’s departure leaves Seattle without a clear starter, and the team will now likely look to the draft or free agency to find a long-term solution under center. While Smith was an integral part of the Seahawks’ success in recent years, the team will now need to find a successor who can lead them into the future.
Conclusion
The Raiders’ acquisition of Geno Smith is a significant move that could pay immediate dividends for the team. With his experience and proven success in recent seasons, Smith brings a steadying presence to a Raiders offense that has struggled for consistency. His reunion with Pete Carroll in Las Vegas will be a storyline to watch as the season unfolds, and Raiders fans will hope that Smith can help guide the team back to playoff contention in a loaded AFC. On the other hand, the Seahawks will be looking to the future, as they search for their next starting quarterback following Smith’s departure.
