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‘We’re Working in the Shadows’: Geno Smith Has Powerful Take About the Raiders

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 10:05 AM ET

Geno Smith’s ambitious outlook on the Las Vegas Raiders has caught the attention of the NFL world. His statement about the team “working in the shadows” reflects a quiet confidence as the team aims to rise from years of underperformance.

Smith, acquired this offseason alongside the return of veteran coach Pete Carroll , brings leadership to a team seeking redemption. After a 4-13 season, Las Vegas is determined to end its playoff drought, with Smith anchoring the offense and first-round pick Ashton Jeanty adding versatility to the backfield. Despite external doubts, the team appears unified in its mission to exceed expectations.

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks guard Laken Tomlinson (70) blocks for quarterback Geno Smith (7) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Las Vegas faces significant challenges in the AFC West, home to three playoff teams from last season. Smith, however, embraces the underdog mentality, emphasizing the team’s preparation over media narratives. His 2024 statistics with the Seahawks—4,320 passing yards and a 70.4% completion rate—underscore his ability to perform under pressure, making him a potential game-changer for the franchise.

Carroll’s leadership has reinvigorated the organization, fostering an environment of accountability and focus. Smith’s partnership with wide receiver Jakobi Meyers will be critical in establishing a reliable passing game. With a tough schedule ahead, including matchups against divisional powerhouses, Las Vegas must translate its offseason progress into on-field success.

Quarterback Geno Smith Drops Powerful Take About Las Vegas Raiders Ahead of 2025 NFL Season

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) against the Arizona Cardinals in the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Smith shared a powerful take about his team before the new season has started. This can be seen in a post shared by NFL Network on Instagram.

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Smith’s declaration to “let them sleep” has resonated with fans and critics alike, signaling a shift in the team’s mentality. The Raiders’ commitment to blocking out distractions and focusing on their craft sets the stage for a compelling season. Their preseason opener against the Seahawks will provide the first glimpse of this revamped team.

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

As the Raiders prepare to prove their doubters wrong, Smith’s leadership and confidence could be the catalyst for a transformative year. The team’s journey from the shadows to the spotlight remains one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2025 season.

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) celebrates a touchdown with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11) against the Arizona Cardinals in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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