Geno Smith’s New Chapter with the Las Vegas Raiders: A Journey of Unfinished Business and New Beginnings
HENDERSON, Nev. — In a move that has stirred excitement and curiosity among NFL fans, Geno Smith, the former quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, has made his first public appearance since being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders. During this introductory press conference, Smith didn’t hold back in expressing his gratitude and admiration for his former coach, Pete Carroll, highlighting their relationship as a pivotal factor in his decision to don the Silver and Black.
“I think there is unfinished business,” Smith candidly shared on Monday. “And I think, when people think about my story, Coach Carroll was a big part of that. He gave me an opportunity when not many people would have.”
Smith’s journey with the Seahawks was marked by perseverance and growth. He spent four of his five seasons in Seattle under Carroll’s guidance, initially serving as a backup before stepping into the spotlight as the team’s starter following Russell Wilson‘s trade to the Denver Broncos in 2022.
“I’ll run through a wall for him, and he knows that.”
Smith’s belief in his potential as a starter was unwavering, a sentiment shared by Carroll. Over the course of 37 games under Carroll’s leadership, Smith amassed 8,641 passing yards, 55 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions, earning two Pro Bowl appearances along the way.
Carroll reminisced about Smith’s determination, saying, “I mean, not weeks, I’m talking for years playing behind Russell [Wilson], and he just never let up on that thought. And it was so impressive to me. As soon as we had the opportunity to put him in a position to take the lead, I couldn’t wait. And he’s been a winner ever since.”
The bond between Smith and Carroll is palpable, with Smith describing Carroll as “legendary” and praising his ability to let players be themselves while maintaining a winning track record. “I’ll run through a wall for him, and he knows that,” Smith reiterated.
In a light-hearted exchange, Carroll responded, “I want to say, I might hit that wall before you get there.”
When the opportunity arose to trade for Smith, the Raiders didn’t hesitate. They sent a 2025 third-round pick to Seattle in exchange for the quarterback. Smith, in turn, harbors no ill feelings about his departure from the Seahawks.
Smith has since inked a multiyear extension with the Raiders. While the team did not disclose the terms on Monday, a source informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter that Smith secured a two-year, $75 million extension, potentially worth up to $85.5 million, with $66.5 million guaranteed.
In Las Vegas, Carroll believes Smith brings “instant stability” to the quarterback position, a much-needed asset after the Raiders endured three consecutive losing seasons and cycled through six different starting quarterbacks since parting ways with Derek Carr after the 2022 season.
Despite a challenging final season in Seattle, where Smith threw 15 interceptions, he still managed to finish fourth in passing yards (4,320) and fifth in completion percentage (70.4%).
“Not in a cocky or arrogant way, but I just feel that I’m one of the better quarterbacks in the NFL,” Smith asserted. “I’m out to go out there and prove it.”
Smith’s arrival in Vegas has generated excitement beyond Carroll. General manager John Spytek expressed his enthusiasm, noting that Smith’s journey could serve as a valuable resource for the team.
Adding to the excitement, Smith had a FaceTime call with Tom Brady once the trade was finalized and was invited to the minority owner’s home. “I went to his home and got a chance to just spend about an hour and just talk ball with him and just talk about life,” Smith recounted. “… I want to learn as much as I can from him, the greatest quarterback to play the game. I mean, there’s so many things that you can learn. I think the main thing is that I’m here to win, and I’m here to do the right things for my teammates, just as he did.”
- Geno Smith’s trade to the Raiders marks a new chapter in his career.
- Smith’s relationship with Pete Carroll played a significant role in his decision.
- Smith’s contract with the Raiders includes a two-year, $75 million extension.
- Smith aims to bring stability to the Raiders’ quarterback position.
- Smith’s journey and experience are seen as valuable assets for the team.
Originally Written by: Ryan McFadden
