Posted on Mar 10

Jets trade for QB Geno Smith from Raiders, reuniting him with original team

Posted Mar 10, 2026

The New York Jets have acquired quarterback Geno Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders, marking a significant reunion for the player and the franchise that drafted him in 2013.

Why it matters: This trade signals the Jets' ongoing commitment to solidifying their quarterback position as they seek to improve their offensive performance.

Smith, who spent his early career with the Jets, has had a resurgence in recent years, showcasing his potential as a starter with the Seattle Seahawks before his stint with the Raiders.
By acquiring Smith, the Jets are looking to bolster competition within their quarterback room, an essential step given their struggles at the position in previous seasons.

What’s new: The Jets will send a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Smith and a seventh-round pick.

Before finalizing the trade, Smith agreed to restructure his contract, allowing the Jets to bring him on board at just over the veteran minimum, a financially savvy move for the organization.
This restructuring means that the Raiders will continue to pay a substantial portion of Smith's contract, further easing the financial burden on the Jets.

By the numbers: Smith's statistics in his previous seasons reflect his growth as a quarterback.

Last season, he completed 69.8% of his passes while throwing for over 4,200 yards with 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions—a performance that earned him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 2022.
His ability to read defenses and make crucial decisions under pressure could greatly benefit the Jets, who have struggled with quarterback play in recent campaigns.

Yes, but: While this acquisition provides the Jets with another option under center, questions remain about how he will fit into the team's current offensive scheme.

The Jets run a West Coast offense, which emphasizes quick passes and timing routes. Smith's experience in various systems may provide valuable flexibility, but adapting to the Jets’ specific playbook will be key.
Additionally, the competition from young quarterbacks already on the roster will push Smith to prove himself once again.

What to watch: With training camp on the horizon, all eyes will be on Smith as he competes for the starting role.

The dynamics within the quarterback room will be pivotal as head coach Robert Saleh looks to cultivate a competitive environment that fosters improvement across the board.
Expect the Jets to utilize Smith's experience to mentor younger players while also evaluating his skills as a potential starter for the upcoming season.

The bottom line: The Jets trade for Geno Smith reflects a strategic effort to improve their quarterback situation while leveraging financial flexibility.

As Smith re-establishes himself with the team that gave him his first opportunity, both parties stand to gain from this renewed partnership.

Jets trade for QB Geno Smith from Raiders, reuniting him with original team

Alex Parker

Posted Mar 10, 2026

The New York Jets have acquired quarterback Geno Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders, marking a significant reunion for the player and the franchise that drafted him in 2013.

Why it matters: This trade signals the Jets' ongoing commitment to solidifying their quarterback position as they seek to improve their offensive performance.

Smith, who spent his early career with the Jets, has had a resurgence in recent years, showcasing his potential as a starter with the Seattle Seahawks before his stint with the Raiders.

By acquiring Smith, the Jets are looking to bolster competition within their quarterback room, an essential step given their struggles at the position in previous seasons.

What’s new: The Jets will send a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Smith and a seventh-round pick.

Before finalizing the trade, Smith agreed to restructure his contract, allowing the Jets to bring him on board at just over the veteran minimum, a financially savvy move for the organization.

This restructuring means that the Raiders will continue to pay a substantial portion of Smith's contract, further easing the financial burden on the Jets.

By the numbers: Smith's statistics in his previous seasons reflect his growth as a quarterback.

Last season, he completed 69.8% of his passes while throwing for over 4,200 yards with 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions—a performance that earned him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 2022.

His ability to read defenses and make crucial decisions under pressure could greatly benefit the Jets, who have struggled with quarterback play in recent campaigns.

Yes, but: While this acquisition provides the Jets with another option under center, questions remain about how he will fit into the team's current offensive scheme.

The Jets run a West Coast offense, which emphasizes quick passes and timing routes. Smith's experience in various systems may provide valuable flexibility, but adapting to the Jets’ specific playbook will be key.

Additionally, the competition from young quarterbacks already on the roster will push Smith to prove himself once again.

What to watch: With training camp on the horizon, all eyes will be on Smith as he competes for the starting role.

The dynamics within the quarterback room will be pivotal as head coach Robert Saleh looks to cultivate a competitive environment that fosters improvement across the board.

Expect the Jets to utilize Smith's experience to mentor younger players while also evaluating his skills as a potential starter for the upcoming season.

The bottom line: The Jets trade for Geno Smith reflects a strategic effort to improve their quarterback situation while leveraging financial flexibility.

As Smith re-establishes himself with the team that gave him his first opportunity, both parties stand to gain from this renewed partnership.