As the NFL's new league year approaches, teams are gearing up to make some pivotal decisions, and the Las Vegas Raiders are no exception. They've reached a crossroads with quarterback Geno Smith, and reports suggest a significant move is on the horizon. If a trade doesn't materialize by March 11th, Smith will be released.
This decision clears the path for Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick, to step into the starting role immediately. While some might have expected the Raiders to retain Smith for his veteran experience alongside the rookie, the financial implications make this move understandable. Smith's contract would be fully guaranteed just days into the new league year, and freeing up that $8 million could be a strategic play for the Raiders as they look to bolster their roster elsewhere.
The situation is also about hitting the reset button. After a season that didn’t quite meet expectations, both the Raiders and Smith seem ready for a fresh start.
The Raiders recently parted ways with Pete Carroll, the former Seattle Seahawks head coach who initially championed the trade for Smith. With Carroll out, it’s only fitting that Smith seeks new opportunities where he can compete for a starting job.
In the end, what was once hailed as a promising trade wraps up after just one season. The $18.5 million dead-cap hit is manageable, especially given the potential upside of investing in new talent. For the Raiders, it's about looking forward, and for Smith, it's a chance to find a new home where he can make an impact.