Despite recently acquiring and signing Geno Smith to a significant two-year contract extension, the Las Vegas Raiders might still consider using their first-round draft pick to select another quarterback, according to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio.
While Smith’s new deal, worth $75 million with the potential to reach $85.5 million, suggests he will be the Raiders’ starting quarterback in 2025, Florio argues that this shouldn’t prevent the team from drafting a high-caliber quarterback like Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders at the sixth overall pick.
Las Vegas Raiders Eyeing Intriguing QB In First Round
“The Smith contract carries at most a two-year commitment,” Florio wrote. “And if the Raiders are willing to roll the dice on Smith making more than $18.5 million elsewhere in 2026, they could move on after only one season and a total payment of $40 million.” He further stated, “[The acquisition of Smith] doesn’t take the Raiders out of the running for a quarterback. And Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders continues to be the most intriguing option at No. 6.”
Florio’s analysis emphasizes that the commitment to Smith, who will turn 35 in October, doesn’t preclude them from securing a potential long-term solution at quarterback early in the draft.
Smith’s journey in the NFL has been marked by resilience. After spending his initial years in Seattle primarily as a backup, he stepped into the starting role in 2022 and delivered an impressive season, leading the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth. His remarkable turnaround, which included leading the league in completion percentage (69.8%) and throwing for over 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns, earned him NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors and his first Pro Bowl selection.
Even if Smith serves as the Raiders’ starter for only a season, his experience could be invaluable in mentoring a young quarterback like Sanders, who is projected to be the second quarterback selected in the draft. Given Smith’s own up-and-down career, he could offer unique insights and guidance to a developing player.