How Pete Carroll Is Approaching Raiders' Uncertain QB Situation

Originally posted on Las Vegas Raiders on SI
By Ezekiel Trezevant | Last updated Dec 10, 2025 6:11 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders' season has hit yet another unexpected setback. Starting quarterback Geno Smith suffered an injury that could potentially keep him out for at least Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Sunday would be the first game Smith has missed since joining the Raiders.

Considering the number of times he has been sacked this season, Smith's injury may have been a blessing in disguise for the veteran quarterback. Las Vegas would then turn to quarterback Kenny Pickett, who won a Super Bowl with the Eagles last season, to lead them against the Eagles in Week 15.

Watch Pete Carroll discuss below

Raiders' Backup Plan to the Backup Plan

Pickett would give the Raiders a different skill set under center on Sunday. While it may not amount to a win, it would at least give Smith a week off to recover and give the Raiders a chance to see what Pickett can do with the players the Raiders have on the roster that are healthy.

This could be a vital week and the rest of the season for the Raiders if Pickett remains the starter. Even if he does not, the next four weeks of the season will significantly affect the Raiders' draft status and long-term future. Las Vegas has a straightforward way of securing the top pick in the NFL Draft.

The Raiders have been without quarterback Aidan O'Connell for most of the regular season, as he missed time with an injury he suffered in the preseason. With Pickett moving up to start at quarterback, O'Connell will become the Raiders' backup quarterback once again.

O'Connell has spent most of his career as a backup but has also started a respectable number of games. Just as quickly as Pickett was thrust into action last week, O'Connell could be until Smith returns.

"We've given him a lot of turns against the defense, so he's had a lot of reps. He hasn't had much with the offense, but he will. That'll gain here with this opening right now, but he's done well, and he understands the scheme. He's a very bright player,” Carroll said.

“Has good confidence in himself, and he carries himself well about it just like you've seen him play, and he's throwing touchdown passes, and he's played NFL football before, so that's all really important to him. So, we'll see how he does. I would think that he'll play fine, and we think we know him, and we know how to call a game for him, and I feel comfortable with that."