- Raiders send 3rd-round pick to Seahawks for veteran QB Geno Smith
- Smith threw 4,320 yards, 21 TDs, and 15 INTs in 2023 season
- Reunites with former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll in Las Vegas
- Seahawks now face urgent need for new starting quarterback
The Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold move to stabilize their quarterback position by acquiring two-time Pro Bowl passer Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. This unexpected trade, confirmed by league sources Friday afternoon, sees the Raiders part ways with a valuable third-round draft pick to secure the 34-year-old signal-caller.
Smith's 2023 campaign saw him deliver impressive production despite Seattle's offensive struggles, with the veteran quarterback surpassing 4,300 passing yards while accounting for 21 touchdowns. His 15 interceptions highlighted areas for improvement, but his completion percentage (67.5%) remained among the NFL's elite. This trade marks a strategic pivot for both franchises as they approach training camp with divergent goals.
Industry Insight #1: The Raiders' acquisition reflects a growing NFL trend of teams prioritizing proven veteran quarterbacks over developmental rookies. With only 12 QBs drafted in 2023 starting more than five games, front offices increasingly value immediate production from experienced passers.
Regional Impact: This move aligns with Las Vegas' aggressive post-relocation strategy to build playoff-ready rosters. Since moving to Nevada in 2020, the Raiders have prioritized high-profile acquisitions like Davante Adams and Chandler Jones to accelerate competitiveness in the AFC West.
Industry Insight #2: Smith's $15.5 million cap hit creates financial flexibility for both teams. The Seahawks clear significant space to pursue free agents, while the Raiders maintain room to extend defensive star Maxx Crosby.
The reunion with Pete Carroll adds fascinating context to this transaction. During their Seattle tenure together, Carroll consistently praised Smith's work ethic and leadership despite initially keeping him as Russell Wilson's backup. This shared history could prove vital in implementing Las Vegas' new offensive system.
Industry Insight #3: Seattle's decision signals confidence in either drafting a QB (potentially Washington's Michael Penix Jr.) or pursuing Baker Mayfield in free agency. The Seahawks own the 16th overall pick - prime positioning to select this year's fourth- or fifth-ranked quarterback prospect.
As training camps approach, this trade reshapes both teams' trajectories. The Raiders immediately improve their playoff odds in a competitive AFC, while Seattle positions itself for long-term rebuilding. How Smith adapts to his third NFL home could become one of 2024's defining storylines.
