Raiders to release Geno Smith
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Las Vegas Raiders plan to release quarterback Geno Smith at the start of the new league year unless they find a trade partner, saving $8 million against the cap but incurring $18.5 million in dead money.
- This move clears the way for the Raiders to select Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft, who is expected to become the team's starting quarterback immediately.
- The Raiders acquired Smith from the Seahawks last year and signed him to a two-year, $75 million extension, but Smith struggled in 2025, throwing 19 touchdowns and a league-high 17 interceptions.
- Despite a difficult 2025 season, Smith remains a potential bridge starter option for other teams,
