The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing to part ways with former Pro Bowl quarterback Geno Smith, as reports suggest he will be released before the new league year begins. NFL insider Jonathan Jones from CBS Sports indicates that this move, barring an unexpected trade, will clear up approximately $8 million in salary cap space for the team, although they will incur $18.5 million in dead money.
With the first overall pick in the upcoming April draft, the Raiders are anticipated to select their quarterback of the future, former Indiana standout Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza recently led the Hoosiers to their first national championship and was honored with the Heisman Trophy for his outstanding performance.
The Raiders acquired Smith from the Seattle Seahawks last offseason in exchange for a third-round draft pick. Over his year in Las Vegas, the 35-year-old signal-caller completed 67.4% of his passes, throwing for 3,025 yards and 19 touchdowns. However, Smith also struggled significantly, tossing a league-high 17 interceptions and finishing with a disappointing 2-13 record as the team’s starting quarterback.
Smith was originally picked 39th overall in the 2013 NFL Draft by the New York Jets, where he faced challenges on mostly underperforming teams. After some years as a backup, he revitalized his career in Seattle, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the Seahawks to the playoffs in 2022. His struggles in Las Vegas have been notable, and with the recent coaching changes, including the firing of head coach Pete Carroll, Smith finds himself among a group of veteran quarterbacks that will be seeking new beginnings as the next season approaches.
Amidst these changes, new head coach Klint Kubiak looks to steer the Raiders in a favorable direction. The team boasts a wealth of resources, including ten draft picks and substantial salary cap space, which they can leverage to improve the roster, especially at skill positions. Currently, the Raiders feature promising talents like running back Ashton Jeanty, who had an impressive rookie season with 1,321 all-purpose yards, and tight end Brock Bowers, a two-time Pro Bowl selection.
As the Raiders look to rebuild and move forward, the combination of a fresh face at quarterback and ample resources presents an exciting opportunity for a new chapter in Las Vegas.