Seattle is buzzing with news after a significant trade went down late Friday. The Seattle Seahawks have officially agreed to send Geno Smith, their 34-year-old quarterback, to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a third-round draft pick, specifically the No. 92 overall selection. This deal comes just days before the unofficial start of NFL free agency and leads into the official start next Wednesday.
While this transaction might not completely shake up the league, it does hold weight for both franchises involved. Both the Seahawks and Raiders had challenging seasons in 2024, missing the playoffs. Smith, a two-time Pro Bowl quarterback, has yet to win a playoff game in his career, making this trade notable. It appears to reflect a changing strategy from both teams, who were already clearly looking to adjust their paths.
The Seahawks had a surprising 10-7 record last year but fell short of the playoffs due to a tiebreaker. With newly appointed coach Macdonald, who has a strong defensive background, it’s likely that Seattle will return to prioritizing a solid defense and a ball-control offense. Smith’s tenure as the starter involved heavy passing, averaging over 4,000 yards per season, a stark contrast to the run-oriented approach the team may adopt moving forward.
Smith joins the Raiders, where he will reconnect with former coach Pete Carroll, who was at the helm during Smith’s pivotal early years in Seattle. This move may provide Smith with another chance to shine, perhaps leading to more opportunities in his football career. In Las Vegas, he could position himself as a stable presence while the team seeks to enhance its supporting cast around him.
On the draft front, there is speculation about other players potentially rising in value. Running back Jeanty from Boise State is gaining attention after a remarkable college season, rushing for 2,601 yards. His performance might just catapult him into a top-10 draft pick position, especially with teams like the Chicago Bears and New York Jets also looking to rebuild.
As for the Seahawks, with Smith leaving and wide receiver DK Metcalf possibly on his way out, the team might be eyeing other free-agent quarterbacks. The landscape of the NFL is shifting quickly, and the upcoming draft and free agency periods will undoubtedly reveal more about both teams’ futures.
In conclusion, this trade is a clear indication of the new direction both the Seahawks and the Raiders are looking to take. With the NFL draft on the horizon, fans can expect more movement among players and teams alike as they prepare for the 2025 season.
