The Las Vegas Raiders have made a massive move this offseason, completing a blockbuster trade to bring back a familiar face to the franchise. In a deal worth $97 million, the Raiders have reunited with quarterback Geno Smith, who previously played under head coach Pete Carroll in Seattle. The move aims to solidify the quarterback position, which has been a point of uncertainty for the team since the departure of Derek Carr.
The Details of the Trade
The Raiders acquired Smith from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While the trade itself does not involve a high draft pick, the real value comes from the new contract that Smith is expected to sign with the Raiders. Reports indicate that Smith’s contract extension could be in the range of $40–45 million per year, making this a substantial investment for Las Vegas.
Smith had an impressive tenure with the Seahawks, earning two Pro Bowl selections and proving to be a reliable leader on the field. His ability to manage the game efficiently and make key plays in clutch moments made him a valuable asset for Seattle. However, with the Seahawks looking to restructure their roster, they opted to trade him and potentially pursue other quarterback options in free agency.
Why the Raiders Made This Move
The Raiders had a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, struggling with inconsistent quarterback play. After moving on from Derek Carr, the team experimented with Jimmy Garoppolo and Aidan O’Connell, but neither could provide the long-term stability the franchise needed. By bringing in Smith, the Raiders are hoping to strengthen their offense and return to playoff contention.
Head coach Antonio Pierce has emphasized the need for a strong, veteran presence at quarterback. Smith fits the mold of a proven leader who can efficiently run the offense and complement the team’s defensive strengths. His familiarity with Pete Carroll’s coaching philosophy will also play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition.
What This Means for Seattle
For the Seahawks, parting ways with Smith signals a rebuilding phase. With the quarterback position now vacant, reports suggest that Seattle is targeting Sam Darnold in free agency as a potential replacement. While Darnold has had an up-and-down career, the Seahawks may see him as a cost-effective option to bridge the gap until they find a long-term solution.
Additionally, this trade allows the Seahawks to free up cap space and focus on strengthening other areas of their roster. The departure of Smith indicates that Seattle might also look toward the 2025 NFL Draft for their next franchise quarterback.
Looking Ahead
This trade is a pivotal moment for the Raiders. By acquiring Smith, they have signaled their intent to compete immediately rather than undergo a full rebuild. If Smith can replicate his success from Seattle, the Raiders could quickly become a contender in the AFC West.
For now, Raiders fans can celebrate the return of a quarterback who brings both talent and leadership to a franchise in desperate need of stability.