Shocking Trade: Geno Smith Joins the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025 – What It Means for the NFL
In a shocking NFL trade, the Seattle Seahawks have sent quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This move has created a buzz across the league and raised major questions about the direction of both teams.
Geno Smith’s Remarkable Comeback Story
Geno Smith’s journey in the NFL has been full of ups and downs. After being drafted by the New York Jets, he struggled to find consistency and spent years as a backup. Many thought his career as a starter was over—until he got his chance in Seattle.
When the Seahawks parted ways with Russell Wilson, Smith stepped up in 2022 and stunned the football world. He led the NFL in completion percentage, earned a Pro Bowl selection, and won the AP Comeback Player of the Year award. Over his time in Seattle, he passed for 12,961 yards, 76 touchdowns, and 36 interceptions in 54 games, proving he was more than just a short-term option.
What’s Next for the Seattle Seahawks?
Now that Smith is gone, the Seahawks must decide on their next starting quarterback. Reports indicate that Seattle is considering Sam Darnold, who showed promise last season with the Minnesota Vikings, as a temporary solution.
However, with four top-100 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Seahawks have several options:
- First-round pick (No. 18)
- Second-round pick (No. 50)
- Third-round pick (No. 82)
- Newly acquired third-round pick (No. 92)
Some analysts believe Seattle may trade up to secure a top quarterback prospect. Others suggest they could use their draft capital to strengthen other positions and bring in a veteran QB to bridge the gap.
Additionally, the Seahawks have a new offensive coordinator, which means changes to their system are likely. They could target a dual-threat quarterback to match a more modern, mobile playstyle.
Why the Raiders Made This Move
The Raiders have struggled to find a stable quarterback since moving on from Derek Carr. Their 4-13 record last season highlighted their need for an experienced leader under center.
Before acquiring Smith, Las Vegas reportedly explored a trade for Matthew Stafford. Instead, they opted for a more affordable and reliable option in Smith, who reunites with Pete Carroll, his former coach in Seattle. Carroll understands Smith’s strengths and is expected to tailor the Raiders’ offensive strategy around his skill set.
Smith will have strong offensive weapons, including All-Pro receiver Davante Adams, giving him a great chance to thrive in Las Vegas. However, the Raiders will need to upgrade their offensive line to ensure Smith has the protection he needs to succeed.
Impact on the 2025 NFL Draft
Smith’s move to the Raiders could shake up the upcoming NFL Draft. Before the trade, Las Vegas was expected to target a quarterback in the first round. Now, with a veteran quarterback in place, the team may shift its focus to bolstering other key positions, such as offensive line or defense.
This trade also impacts other quarterback-needy teams, such as the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With the Raiders likely out of the running for a top rookie quarterback, the draft order could shift significantly, affecting teams’ strategies.
The Big Picture: What This Trade Means for the NFL
The Geno Smith trade is one of the biggest storylines of the offseason. For the Seahawks, it marks the start of a rebuilding phase as they look for their next franchise quarterback. For the Raiders, it signals a push to become playoff contenders with a proven veteran leader.
As free agency and the draft approach, this trade will continue to influence roster decisions across the league. Fans will be eager to see whether Smith can lead the Raiders to success or if Seattle’s decision to move on will pay off in the long run.
One thing is certain: this trade has set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable NFL offseason.