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2h ago

Raiders to Release Geno Smith After One Season

The move signals Las Vegas' plan to draft Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick.

Quarterback Geno Smith of the Las Vegas Raiders. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
Dec 28, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) looks to throw in the third quarter against the New York Giants at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) warms up before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The decision comes before a March 13 trigger that would have added $8 million in guarantees, creating roughly $8 million in cap savings and about $18.5 million in dead money, per Over the Cap.
  • Las Vegas tried to trade Smith in recent days but found no partner and will proceed with a release at the start of the league year barring a deal, according to multiple reports.
  • Smith went 2-13 in 15 starts in 2025 with 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns and an NFL‑high 17 interceptions as the 3-14 Raiders finished last in points and yards and allowed 55 sacks.
  • The quarterback reset follows a broader overhaul that included firing Pete Carroll after the season and hiring Klint Kubiak as head coach last month.
  • Smith will enter free agency when the new league year begins March 11, and multiple teams are expected to consider him as a veteran option or bridge starter.