The Las Vegas Raiders moved quickly on Monday to address a pressing need at quarterback, acquiring Kenny Pickett from the Cleveland Browns for a 2026 fifth-round pick, according to multiple reports. The trade comes just days after backup Aidan O’Connell suffered a fractured wrist, leaving Geno Smith without a reliable second option. Rookie Cam Miller had filled in, but the Raiders sought a more experienced presence behind their starter.
“He’s hurt and it is going to be a while,” coach Pete Carroll said of O’Connell. “It’s a huge blow for us.”
Raiders Acquire QB Kenny Pickett After Backup Injury, Bolster Depth Behind Geno Smith
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Pickett, who was acquired by Cleveland in a March trade with the Eagles for Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round pick, had been in a four-man competition for the Browns’ starting job. Flacco ultimately won the job, and with rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders showing promise during the preseason, Cleveland was comfortable moving Pickett. Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot noted that when the Raiders offered a 2026 fifth-round pick, the team “jumped at the chance.”
Pickett’s preseason in Cleveland was hampered by a hamstring injury, limiting him to a brief window of evaluation. Meanwhile, Gabriel impressed in some stretches, demonstrating mobility and command of the offense despite a few costly turnovers, and Sanders made a strong start before a strained oblique sidelined him for several practices.
For the Raiders, Pickett provides a seasoned backup capable of stepping in if needed, adding stability to the position behind Smith. The trade addresses an immediate roster need while giving Las Vegas a player familiar with NFL competition, rather than relying solely on a rookie for the next two months. With O’Connell sidelined and the regular season approaching, Pickett’s arrival offers the Raiders reassurance and depth at the league’s most critical position.