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“Thank U!!” NFL Sees Pro Bowl Quarterback Released Then Celebrate Being Cut (Look)

NFL veteran and Pro Bowl quarterback Geno Smith has turned to faith in the wake of his release from the Las Vegas Raiders, a team that struggled mightily last season with just three wins.

In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Smith shared his gratitude to God, writing “God is the GREATEST THANK U LORD” shortly after reports surfaced of his impending departure from the franchise.

The move, which creates $8 million in cap space for the Raiders while leaving them with $18.5 million in dead money, marks the end of Smith’s brief tenure in Las Vegas and opens the door for him to explore new opportunities in the NFL free agent market.

September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell before the game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell before the game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Geno Smith, a former second-round pick and 2022 Pro Bowler with the Seattle Seahawks, joined the Las Vegas Raiders via trade in March 2025 before signing a two-year, $75 million extension.

God is the GREATEST

THANK U LORD 🙏🏿

— Geno (@GenoSmith3) March 6, 2026

Reunited with then-head coach Pete Carroll, Smith was expected to stabilize the quarterback position for a rebuilding team. However, the 2025 season proved disastrous for the Raiders, who finished with a dismal 3-14 record amid injuries, coaching changes, and offensive inconsistencies.

Smith started all games he played but faced challenges, throwing for 3,124 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in a transitional year.

Despite the setbacks, Smith’s NFL career has been a story of resilience. After revitalizing his game in Seattle with back-to-back strong seasons (including a 2022 Pro Bowl nod), his time in Las Vegas didn’t yield the same success.

Now 35, Smith’s release positions him as a sought-after veteran free agent, with teams like the New York Jets already linked to him as a potential bridge starter or mentor.

Oct 5, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) looks to pass the ball against the Indianapolis Colts during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Geno Smith’s Faithful Reaction: Thanking God Amid NFL Uncertainty

In the face of professional adversity, Geno Smith’s immediate reaction was one of gratitude and faith. His X post—”God is the GREATEST THANK U LORD”—resonated with fans and drew widespread support across the NFL community.

The message highlights Smith’s well-documented spiritual side, which has been a constant throughout his career ups and downs. Coming from a quarterback who has overcome early-career struggles to earn Pro Bowl honors, the post serves as an inspiring reminder of perspective in the high-stakes world of professional football.

The Raiders’ poor performance last season—winning just three games and missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year—likely factored into the decision to move on from Smith. With the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Las Vegas is poised to select a young quarterback prospect, signaling a full rebuild.

What’s Next for Geno Smith in the NFL Free Agent Market

As Geno Smith enters NFL free agency, his experience, arm talent, and leadership make him an attractive option for teams needing quarterback depth. At a potentially reduced salary due to the Raiders’ dead money obligations, Smith could land with a contender as a backup or step in for a rebuilding squad. His Pro Bowl pedigree and ability to perform under pressure ensure he’ll have suitors, even after a challenging stint in Las Vegas.