In a significant move during the NFL offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders have acquired Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks, solidifying their quarterback position. This transaction, which involves a third-round draft pick in 2025, brings Smith, a familiar figure to head coach Pete Carroll, to Las Vegas as the new leader of the offense.

This trade is poised to have a substantial impact on both teams as they prepare for the upcoming 2025 season.

The Raiders’ Quest for a Quarterback

The Raiders have faced ongoing challenges in establishing a reliable quarterback. Following the departure of Gardner Minshew and the inconsistent performances from Jimmy Garoppolo and Aidan O’Connell, it became evident that a change was necessary for Las Vegas.

Instead of waiting for the 2025 NFL Draft or pursuing free agency, the Raiders opted for a proactive approach by trading for Smith. This acquisition not only provides them with an experienced quarterback but also reunites him with his former coach, Pete Carroll.

Reasons Behind the Seahawks’ Decision to Trade Geno Smith

The Seahawks‘ choice to trade their starting quarterback may catch some off guard. However, with the recent changes in coaching staff, including Pete Carroll’s exit and the appointment of Mike Macdonald, a shift in strategy was anticipated.

The Seahawks have also been active in reshaping their roster, including the release of veteran receiver Tyler Lockett and addressing potential trade requests from DK Metcalf. This indicates a clear intention to embark on a rebuilding phase. Moreover, Smith’s contract situation influenced the trade decision.

With only one year remaining on his current contract and no extension finalized at the time of the trade, Smith is set to enter free agency in 2026 unless the Raiders extend a new contract offer.

Pete Carroll and Geno Smith Reunited

A notable element of this trade is the reconnection between Pete Carroll and Geno Smith. When Smith became a member of the Seahawks in 2020, Carroll was already firmly established as the head coach of Seattle.

Under Carroll’s guidance, Smith experienced a remarkable season in 2022, achieving Pro Bowl recognition and amassing a career-high 4,282 passing yards, along with 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

This performance solidified his role as the starting quarterback for the Seahawks. However, following the conclusion of the 2023 season, Carroll was dismissed, leaving Smith to navigate a new coaching regime. Now, the two have reunited in Las Vegas, aiming to replicate the success they enjoyed in Seattle.

The Raiders’ Draft Plans Moving Forward

Despite acquiring Geno Smith in a significant trade with the Seahawks, the Raiders’ search for a quarterback may not be concluded.

Las Vegas currently possesses the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and analysts suggest that they might still opt to select a young quarterback to develop alongside Smith. Given that Smith’s contract is set to expire in 2026, this strategy could serve as a temporary solution while the team prepares for the future.

How Smith Performed with the Seahawks

Although there were uncertainties regarding his long-term prospects in Seattle, Smith consistently delivered commendable performances in recent seasons. In 2024, he guided the Seahawks to a 10-7 record, marking his most successful regular-season finish as a starter.

Furthermore, he achieved a new career high in passing yards, throwing for 4,320 yards, which also set a franchise record. During that season, Smith recorded 21 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

While Smith has only participated in one playoff game as a starter—a defeat in the 2022 wild-card round—he has demonstrated his capability to perform in critical situations.

Over the last two seasons, he has tallied nine game-winning drives, placing him in a tie with Patrick Mahomes in that statistic. This ability to excel under pressure is something the Raiders are optimistic will translate into the 2025 season.

The Seahawks’ Future Plans

With the departure of Smith, the Seahawks are actively seeking a new quarterback. They are anticipated to investigate options in both free agency and the draft to address the gap created by his exit.

Potential free agent candidates may include Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers, and other seasoned quarterbacks in search of new opportunities. Additionally, the team might consider selecting a rookie quarterback, contingent upon the developments of the offseason.

Seattle’s choice to part ways with Smith indicates a shift towards a rebuilding strategy. Although Macdonald initially showed confidence in Smith, the front office’s decision to trade him signifies a new trajectory for the organization.

The forthcoming months will clarify how Seattle intends to tackle the quarterback situation in the future.

Implications for the Raiders

The addition of Smith could significantly impact the Raiders. His experience and leadership qualities render him a valuable asset for a team aspiring to contend. Moreover, his prior experience with Pete Carroll’s coaching approach will facilitate a smoother transition into a new system.

Nonetheless, a primary concern will be his interception statistics; in 2024, Smith recorded 15 interceptions, ranking third in the NFL. Minimizing turnovers will be a vital focus as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Maxx Crosby’s Response to the Trade

In the wake of the trade announcement, Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby shared his perspective on the transaction.

Crosby, who recently achieved the status of the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, conveyed optimism regarding Smith’s arrival. His response

underscores the enthusiasm within the Raiders’ locker room about acquiring a proven leader at the quarterback position.

Key Insights from the Trade

The Raiders have acquired Geno Smith in a significant trade with the Seahawks, providing them with a seasoned quarterback.

Smith will reconnect with head coach Pete Carroll, who played a pivotal role in his standout season in 2022.

The Seahawks are experiencing substantial changes, including the release of key players and the search for a new quarterback.

Due to Smith’s contract situation, he could enter free agency in 2026 unless the Raiders opt to extend his deal. The Raiders may still consider selecting a quarterback with their sixth overall pick. Smith offers leadership and playmaking skills, although he needs to improve his interception rate.

Expert Editorial Comment

The Raiders have successfully secured Geno Smith in a significant trade with the Seahawks, paving the way for an exhilarating 2025 season. This transaction not only reunites Smith with Pete Carroll but also equips Las Vegas with a reliable leader at the quarterback position.

While uncertainties linger regarding Smith’s long-term prospects, his experience and ability to perform under pressure render him a valuable asset for the Raiders. Conversely, the Seahawks now face the task of identifying their next franchise quarterback.

As both teams gear up for the upcoming league year, this trade could have enduring effects on the futures of both organizations.