Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Raiders Announce Geno Smith News Before Chiefs Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jan 2, 2026 6:36 PM ET

Geno Smith is dealing with an ankle injury ahead of the Las Vegas Raiders’ season finale against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. The Raiders are in possession of the worst record in the entire NFL at 2-14, and they will have an opportunity to end their campaign on a high note against a Chiefs side that has lost five in a row.

Smith, however, sustained an injury in Vegas’ 34-10 loss to the New York Giants in Week 17. The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback was forced to exit the game in the fourth quarter and was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the contest. The Raiders later announced that Smith had been diagnosed with a high-ankle sprain.

Geno Smith is in his first season as the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterbackStephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Smith has been the Raiders’ starting quarterback throughout the campaign. In 15 games played, the 35-year-old has registered 302-of-448 completed passes (67.4%) for 3,025 yards and 19 touchdowns. Smith, however, leads the NFL in interceptions (17) and sacks (55).

Las Vegas will be without the services of the veteran QB on Sunday. The Raiders announced on Friday that Smith has been officially ruled out for the Chiefs game due to his ankle injury. This does not come as a complete surprise, considering how Smith missed all three days of practice ahead of Sunday’s contest.

The Raiders have not confirmed who will start in Smith’s place against the Chiefs, but this will come down to Kenny Pickett or Aidan O’Connell.

It is important to note that Vegas will secure the No. 1 pick of the 2026 NFL Draft with a loss against the Chiefs on Sunday.

Las Vegas will host the season finale between these two AFC West rivals, with kickoff from Allegiant Stadium scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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