Posted on Mar 06

Raiders release QB Geno Smith, clearing $8 million in cap space amid struggles

Posted Mar 6, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders have released quarterback Geno Smith following a tumultuous season, setting the stage for a significant overhaul in their offensive strategy.

Why it matters: The decision to part ways with Smith allows the Raiders to free up $8 million in salary cap space but comes with the cost of incurring $18.5 million in dead money. This move signals a shift in the team's approach as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the top pick.

Smith's struggles culminated in a lackluster performance, throwing 19 touchdowns against 17 interceptions over 15 games in the 2025 season.
His departure may open the door for fresh talent, particularly with Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza expected to be selected first overall.

What’s new: The Raiders made this decision after assessing Smith's performance and the overall direction of their franchise under general manager John Spytek.

After signing a two-year, $75 million extension post-trade from the Seattle Seahawks, Smith's tenure was marred by injuries and inconsistent play.
He ranked 27th in QBR with a score of 34.1, highlighting persistent issues within the offense.

Yes, but: While Smith faced his share of challenges, Spytek emphasized that the quarterback's struggles were not solely due to his own performance.

"I didn't want to blame Smith's struggles all on the 35-year-old signal caller himself,” Spytek said. “I could've put Smith in a better position to succeed."
The firing of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly mid-season underscores potential dysfunction within the team’s offensive scheme.

What to watch: As the Raiders move forward, attention will turn towards how they rebuild their quarterback situation and address their offensive woes.

Aidan O'Connell, currently the backup quarterback, may see increased responsibility or competition as the Raiders explore options leading up to the draft.
The integration of new talent, particularly at the quarterback position, will be critical for the team's success next season.

The bottom line: Geno Smith's exit represents both a financial maneuver and a strategic pivot for the Raiders as they seek to reshape their roster and improve upon a dismal 3-14 season.

With a focus on the future, the Raiders are poised to make bold moves in the offseason to bolster their chances in an increasingly competitive AFC West.

Raiders release QB Geno Smith, clearing $8 million in cap space amid struggles

Alex Parker

Posted Mar 6, 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders have released quarterback Geno Smith following a tumultuous season, setting the stage for a significant overhaul in their offensive strategy.

Smith's struggles culminated in a lackluster performance, throwing 19 touchdowns against 17 interceptions over 15 games in the 2025 season.

His departure may open the door for fresh talent, particularly with Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza expected to be selected first overall.

What’s new: The Raiders made this decision after assessing Smith's performance and the overall direction of their franchise under general manager John Spytek.

After signing a two-year, $75 million extension post-trade from the Seattle Seahawks, Smith's tenure was marred by injuries and inconsistent play.

He ranked 27th in QBR with a score of 34.1, highlighting persistent issues within the offense.

Yes, but: While Smith faced his share of challenges, Spytek emphasized that the quarterback's struggles were not solely due to his own performance.

"I didn't want to blame Smith's struggles all on the 35-year-old signal caller himself,” Spytek said. “I could've put Smith in a better position to succeed."

The firing of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly mid-season underscores potential dysfunction within the team’s offensive scheme.

What to watch: As the Raiders move forward, attention will turn towards how they rebuild their quarterback situation and address their offensive woes.

Aidan O'Connell, currently the backup quarterback, may see increased responsibility or competition as the Raiders explore options leading up to the draft.

The integration of new talent, particularly at the quarterback position, will be critical for the team's success next season.

The bottom line: Geno Smith's exit represents both a financial maneuver and a strategic pivot for the Raiders as they seek to reshape their roster and improve upon a dismal 3-14 season.

With a focus on the future, the Raiders are poised to make bold moves in the offseason to bolster their chances in an increasingly competitive AFC West.