The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to pick Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall choice in the 2026 NFL Draft, raising significant questions about veteran Geno Smith’s role moving forward. With the team eyeing Mendoza’s development, the Raiders may keep Smith as a temporary starter in the early games to provide stability while the rookie adjusts to the NFL.
Alternatively, the Raiders could opt to part ways with Smith, potentially releasing him to pursue opportunities elsewhere. If that happens, Las Vegas might look to acquire another veteran quarterback to bridge the gap until Mendoza is ready to command the starting position.
Smith’s Name Surfaces in Vikings Quarterback Search
Geno Smith has also been mentioned as a quarterback target beyond the Raiders’ organization. The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly seeking a reliable signal-caller to compete with their current option, J.J. McCarthy. According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, Smith is among several quarterbacks the Vikings are considering this offseason.
“Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Geno Smith, Jimmy Garoppolo, bringing back Kirk Cousins,”
Lewis shared on KARE 11 News on February 6.
“I mean, it is hard to find one of those guys that makes people very optimistic.”
Rumors Link Geno Smith to the New York Jets as a Short-Term Solution
Smith’s potential departure from the Raiders has fueled speculation about a return to the New York Jets. WFAN’s Tommy Lugauer recently proposed that the Jets could re-sign Smith as a temporary option while preparing to draft Texas Longhorns phenom Arch Manning in 2027.
“The next quarterback for the Jets is going to be Geno Smith,”
Lugauer stated in a January 27 WFAN video.
“Now, it’s a short‑term answer, and it’s obviously a [reunion] with Geno and the Jets. But after my advanced search and thinking of it differently and viewing it differently, the next quarterback of the Jets is going to be Geno Smith.”
“As your veteran, stopgap before you draft the eventual franchise and hopeful savior of this team to finally break the streak that is the longest playoff drought of all four major sports.”
Raiders’ Ashton Jeanty’s Perspective on Fernando Mendoza’s Potential
As the Raiders prepare for a new era led by Fernando Mendoza, running back Ashton Jeanty weighed in on the rookie’s character and readiness. Jeanty highlighted Mendoza’s qualities as key to fitting in with the team’s culture and expectations.
“I think his character can fit into any locker room,”
Jeanty said.
“Just by what I’ve seen, he’s a great guy. He’s humble. Obviously, he’s hardworking. He’s worked his way up to where he’s at now. Nobody knew his name a couple of years ago and now he’s one of the top prospects. The hard work, the dedication, the discipline, the focus is definitely there.”
Implications for the Raiders and Geno Smith Moving Forward
The Raiders face a pivotal offseason, balancing the development of Fernando Mendoza with decisions regarding Geno Smith’s future. Keeping Smith as a stopgap could offer continuity and experience, but releasing him might free up cap space and open the door to other veteran options. For Smith, the prospect of joining teams like the Vikings or Jets could mark the next chapter in his career, especially if his role in Las Vegas changes.
This quarterback transition period highlights the Raiders’ commitment to building for the future while navigating the challenges of immediate roster needs. As the draft approaches and offseason moves unfold, both Smith’s and Mendoza’s trajectories will significantly influence the team’s success in the coming years.
Tommy says the next Jets quarterback should be Geno Smith:@tommylugauer pic.twitter.com/7UpSoOEWWT
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) January 27, 2026
