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Las Vegas Raiders set to release QB Geno Smith

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By James Parker | Last updated Mar 6, 2026 2:43 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders are set to release quarterback Geno Smith at the start of the league year barring a trade, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

ESPN sources: the Raiders are releasing last season’s starting quarterback Geno Smith, barring a trade before the start of the new league year. By releasing Smith, the Raiders will open up $8M in salary cap space while taking on $18.5M in dead money. pic.twitter.com/MZGLKJPEeX

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2026

The move will save the Raiders $8 million in cap space as they are expected to draft QB Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft.

In 15 starts last season, Smith threw for 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns and a league-high 17 interceptions.

He was initially traded to the Raiders by the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. He later signed a two-year, 75 million extension with the Las Vegas.

Ultimately, the Raiders finished with a 3-14 record and secured the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

While Mendoza is expected to be an immediate replacement for Smith, the Raiders may also add a veteran QB to battle for the starting spot.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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