Geno Smith has been released by the Las Vegas Raiders at the start of the new NFL league year, a move that will free up $8 million in salary cap space but generates $18.5 million in dead money for the team. This decision comes after the Raiders invested in Smith last offseason, hoping he would improve their offensive performance.
The Raiders rewarded Smith with a two-year, $75 million contract extension, yet his 2025 season failed to meet expectations. He completed 67.4% of his passes for 3,025 yards, throwing 19 touchdowns but also 17 interceptions, preventing the team from achieving the hoped-for offensive gains.
Wendy’s Social Media Jabs Spark Controversy
Following the announcement of Smith’s release, Wendy’s made a mocking social media post directed at the quarterback. They tweeted,
“In case things don’t work out in free agency we’re looking for a Chief Tasting Officer,”
seemingly offering him a sarcastic job opportunity at the fast food chain.
The tweet was met with a wave of criticism from NFL fans who found the joke to be inappropriate and disrespectful. One fan remarked,
“I’m a hater but this is out of pocket,”
while another said,
“I’m not even a Geno fan, but found this a little foul.”
Several users accused Wendy’s of targeting black athletes unfairly, with one stating,
“Very distasteful @Wendys, is it only black athletes you make fun of?”
Others expressed sympathy for Smith’s situation, including a comment that read,
“Imagine losing your job then getting put on blast by a fast food chain.”
Potential Next Steps: Interest from the New York Jets
Looking ahead, Smith could have potential opportunities elsewhere, as reports from SNY insider Connor Hughes suggest the New York Jets are considering pursuing him during free agency. Hughes mentioned,
“Kyler Murray was discussed, but he is expected to sign with the Vikings, per sources. No Kirk Cousins, but watch Geno Smith and Carson Wentz, there is interest there. Jacoby Brissett, too, if Cardinals can be convinced to part.”
Smith has a historical connection with the Jets, who selected him in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of West Virginia. Although his early career in New York did not fulfill draft expectations, he has shown considerable improvement in recent seasons. A return to form with the Jets might provide them with a significant boost at quarterback, especially when compared to options like Brady Cook and Justin Fields currently on their roster.
Implications for Smith and the NFL Landscape
The release of Geno Smith illustrates the high stakes and pressures facing NFL quarterbacks, as expectations and performance are intensely scrutinized. While the Raiders’ decision reflects their dissatisfaction with Smith’s recent output, his ties to the Jets and reported interest signal that his career might not be over. If he manages to recover his previous Pro Bowl-level play, Smith could still be a valuable asset in the league.
Meanwhile, the response to Wendy’s mocking tweet highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of athletes in public discourse, revealing how social media interactions can quickly escalate tensions among fans and organizations alike.
.@GenoSmith3 in case things don’t work out in free agency we’re looking for a Chief Tasting Officer… https://t.co/R50Xug0gT5
— Wendy’s (@Wendys) March 6, 2026
The #Jets might not target just one quarterback in free agency. Belief from agents who met with them at the NFL Combine is that they prefer to add two — if they can. It's similar to what the #Giants did a year ago (Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston).
Kyler Murray was discussed,…
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) March 6, 2026
