The Las Vegas Raiders are releasing quarterback Geno Smith barring a trade before the new league year, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
By cutting Smith, the Raiders open up $8 million in cap space while absorbing $18.5 million in dead money. Las Vegas is expected to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, making Smith’s departure inevitable.
Smith played at WVU from 2009 to 2012, setting program records and earning first-team All-Big East honors in 2011. He left Morgantown as one of the most decorated quarterbacks in school history and the NCAA passing touchdowns leader before going to the New York Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
The veteran struggled in his one season with the Raiders, throwing a league-worst 17 interceptions against 19 touchdowns in 15 starts. Las Vegas went 2-13 in his starts and finished 3-14 on the season.
Before landing in Las Vegas, Smith put together one of the better late-career runs in recent memory. He spent three seasons as Seattle’s starter, made the Pro Bowl twice, and led the league in completion percentage in 2022.
He’ll be a free agent when the new league year opens.
**What’s next for Geno — starter somewhere, backup role, or done?**
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