HENDERSON (KTNV) — The Las Vegas Raiders have released quarterback Geno Smith, according to ESPN sources.
Adam Schefter posted on X, saying that this will open up $8 million in salary cap space.
ESPN sources: the Raiders are releasing last season’s starting quarterback Geno Smith, barring a trade before the start of the new league year. By releasing Smith, the Raiders will open up $8M in salary cap space while taking on $18.5M in dead money. pic.twitter.com/MZGLKJPEeX
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2026
Smith signed a two-year, $75 million extension after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks for a 2025 third-round pick. Smith earned $40 million in 2025, all of which was fully guaranteed.
Initially, the Raiders hoped that pairing Smith with coach Pete Carroll, whom he played under for six seasons with the Seahawks, would translate to immediate success.
But in 15 starts, Smith three for 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns and 17 interceptions, a league high and the most he has thrown in a season since his rookie season with the New York Jets in 2013.
Raiders general manager John Spytek said at the scouting combine that he didn't want to blame Smith's struggles all on the 35-year-old signal-caller. Spytek admitted that he could have put Smith in a better position to succeed.
The Raiders had one of their worst seasons in franchise history this past year. Las Vegas finished 3-14, and Carroll was fired. The Raiders did secure the top pick in the 2026 NFL draft, which they are expected to use to select Smith's replacement, Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
However, Las Vegas is expected add another veteran quarterback who will compete with Mendoza and backup Aidan O'Connell.
Reporting from ESPN contributed to this report.
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