The Las Vegas Raiders’ recent acquisition of quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks has sent ripples through the NFL, particularly concerning the strategies surrounding the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. This move not only addresses the Raiders’ immediate need for stability under center but also reshapes the landscape of the draft, especially regarding the coveted sixth overall pick.
Geno Smith’s journey in the NFL has been a testament to resilience and perseverance. After a standout season in 2022 with the Seahawks, where he led the league in completion percentage and earned the AP Comeback Player of the Year award, Smith secured a three-year, $75 million contract extension. However, despite his individual success, the Seahawks fell short of postseason aspirations in subsequent seasons, leading to the recent trade. The Raiders, coming off a disappointing 4-13 season, saw an opportunity to bolster their quarterback position, especially with the reunion of Smith and head coach Pete Carroll, who joined the Raiders this offseason.
With Smith now at the helm, the Raiders’ draft strategy is poised for adjustment. Holding the sixth overall pick, the team was previously speculated to be in the market for a top quarterback prospect. However, Smith’s presence provides flexibility, allowing the Raiders to address other pressing needs. According to recent mock drafts, the top two quarterback prospects, Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, are projected to be selected first and second overall, respectively. This scenario positions the Raiders to potentially select a premier defensive talent, such as edge rusher Abdul Carter from Penn State, who is highly regarded for his explosive burst and ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
The ripple effect of the Raiders’ trade extends beyond their own draft plans. Teams like the New York Giants, who are in the market for a franchise quarterback, might find the path clearer to trade up for a top prospect, given that the Raiders are less likely to compete for the same players. Additionally, the Seahawks, now without Smith, are exploring options to fill their quarterback vacancy, with discussions around potential free-agent signings or draft selections gaining momentum.
The Raiders’ strategic move to acquire Geno Smith not only stabilizes their quarterback situation but also provides them with the flexibility to optimize their draft strategy. The sixth overall pick now becomes a valuable asset that can be utilized to strengthen other areas of the roster, setting the stage for a dynamic and unpredictable 2025 NFL Draft.
