Jets Secure QB Geno Smith in Trade with Raiders: Sources

Jets Secure QB Geno Smith in Trade with Raiders: Sources

The New York Jets have secured quarterback Geno Smith in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. This strategic move includes a swap of sixth and seventh-round picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. Smith previously played four seasons with the Jets before a stint with the Raiders, where he faced challenges in his performance.

Geno Smith’s Performance History

Last season, Smith started 15 games for the Raiders, finishing with a disappointing record of 2-13. At 35 years old, he experienced one of his least productive years in the NFL:

  • 17 interceptions, the highest since his rookie season in 2013.
  • 3,025 passing yards, second lowest in his career.
  • A QBR of 34.1, marking his worst performance in seasons with multiple starts.

These struggles contributed to the Raiders finishing the season with a 3-14 record, tying for the worst in the league. Las Vegas currently holds the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, where they are anticipated to choose Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Smith’s Career Trajectory

Geno Smith entered the NFL in 2013 as a second-round draft pick by the Jets. Following an injury to starting quarterback Mark Sanchez, Smith took over and started all 16 games in his rookie season, leading the Jets to an 8-8 record. However, his performance later declined:

  • In his second season, he recorded a 3-10 record in 13 starts.
  • Over the next two years, he started only one more game for the Jets.

From 2015 to 2021, Smith had various backup roles in the league. He returned to the Jets for two seasons and played for the New York Giants, Los Angeles Chargers, and Seattle Seahawks. With the Seahawks, he had a career year in 2022, surpassing 4,000 passing yards for the first time and throwing 30 touchdowns. This performance led Seattle to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth.

Return to the Jets

After two starting years with the Seahawks, Smith was traded to the Raiders where he reunited with head coach Pete Carroll. However, after a single season, Carroll was fired from the Raiders. Currently, Smith holds a career record of 42-56 as a starter, with a total of 124 touchdowns and 89 interceptions to his name.

The Jets’ acquisition of Geno Smith marks a notable return, as the franchise will be hopeful for a resurgence with the veteran quarterback.