In a significant NFL offseason move, the Las Vegas Raiders have acquired veteran quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 third-round draft pick. This trade reunites Smith with former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, who took over the Raiders’ coaching position earlier this year.
Smith, 34, revitalized his career in Seattle after stepping in for Russell Wilson in 2022, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the Seahawks to a playoff berth. Over his three seasons as a starter, he demonstrated consistent performance, though the team fell short of postseason appearances in the last two years.
The Raiders, who struggled with a 4-13 record last season, view Smith’s acquisition as a pivotal step toward competitiveness. General Manager John Spytek emphasized the need for a stable quarterback presence, stating, “We’ve got to win more games too.”
Financial considerations played a role in the Seahawks’ decision, as the trade frees up $31 million in cap space, potentially allowing Seattle to pursue other quarterback options in free agency or the upcoming draft.
The NFL community has reacted strongly to the trade, with Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba expressing shock over the sudden move, especially following the release of Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf’s trade request.
As the new league year approaches on March 12, both the Raiders and Seahawks are poised for further roster developments, with Las Vegas potentially eyeing additional offensive weapons to complement Smith, and Seattle exploring avenues to fill the quarterback vacancy.
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