The future of Geno Smith as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders appears uncertain as the 2026 NFL season approaches. With the Raiders holding the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft and anticipated to select Indiana’s rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Smith’s position with the team is under scrutiny. This development unfolds following Smith’s underwhelming performance in 2025 and signals the possibility of a significant roster change that could affect Smith’s career trajectory.
Smith, who signed a two-year, $75 million extension last offseason, had a challenging 2025 campaign, posting his lowest passing statistics since 2021. As the Raiders explore options to revamp their offense and potentially bring in Mendoza, questions arise about whether Smith will remain with the team, be traded, or released, fueling interest across the league from teams needing an experienced quarterback.
Review of Geno Smith’s 2025 Season and Current Contract Situation
In 2025, Geno Smith’s performance fell short of expectations, completing 302 passes for 3,025 yards with 19 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. His passing yards per attempt dropped to 6.8, marking his lowest average since 2020. Despite these struggles, Smith’s experience as a veteran quarterback was viewed as an asset when the Raiders reunited him with head coach Pete Carroll, aiming to stabilize and lead the offense during the team’s rebuilding phase.
However, Smith’s salary cap implications add complexity to the team’s decision-making. With a base salary of $26.5 million in 2026, releasing or trading him could provide the Raiders with significant salary cap relief and roster flexibility, particularly if they opt to focus on developing their potential top draft pick Mendoza sooner rather than later.
League-Wide Interest in Geno Smith Grows Amid System Challenges
While Smith’s 2025 statistics were disappointing, many league insiders and coaches argue that his struggles were influenced heavily by the Raiders’ offensive system. Evaluators have highlighted issues such as protection lapses, ineffective play-calling, and a lack of offensive rhythm that hampered Smith’s ability to perform at his best. These factors have led several teams to believe that Smith could thrive in a different environment.
ESPN analyst Dan Graziano underscored this viewpoint, stating,
“His tape from last season suggested he was held back by the Raiders’ offensive system,”
highlighting the belief that Smith’s talent has not fully translated due to coaching and scheme limitations. Multiple franchises expressed eagerness to explore acquiring Smith if he becomes available, showing the demand for a seasoned quarterback remains despite his recent form.
“Multiple teams believe Geno Smith was held back by the Raiders’ offensive system last season and are eager to see him released,”
noted SleeperNFL, further emphasizing that Smith’s release would attract league-wide attention and interest.
Options for the Raiders as They Prepare for the 2026 Season
The Raiders face critical decisions regarding their quarterback situation moving forward. While the expected draft selection of Fernando Mendoza as the new franchise quarterback signals a shift toward youth and long-term planning, the organization still possesses the leverage to keep Smith as a transitional or bridge quarterback. This approach could allow Mendoza time to develop while maintaining offensive competitiveness in the short term.
The franchise’s path will heavily influence their competitiveness and organizational direction. Retaining Smith could stabilize the offense, but letting him go opens the door to rebuild around a promising rookie. Whether through release, trade, or retention, the decisions made will have a lasting impact on the team’s structure and performance prospects in the coming seasons.
Significance of Smith’s Potential Move and Broader Implications
The uncertainty surrounding Geno Smith’s future with the Raiders underscores the broader challenges NFL teams face when balancing veteran leadership and the infusion of new talent. At nearly 36 years old and coming off a difficult season, Smith’s situation reflects the complex nature of managing roster dynamics, salary cap space, and player development.
Should Smith become available, the interest from other teams implies that his experience and previous success could provide value elsewhere. This scenario offers Smith an opportunity to continue his career in a system better suited to his strengths, while the Raiders can focus on building around new talent like Mendoza. The upcoming decisions will undoubtedly shape the next phase of the Raiders’ franchise and affect the quarterback market across the league.
Multiple teams believe Geno Smith was held back by the Raiders offensive system last season and are eager to see him released, per @DanGrazianoESPN
If the Raiders part ways with Geno Smith, there will be interest. pic.twitter.com/HZQ3hV0SOe
— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) March 1, 2026
