When the Las Vegas Raiders traded for former Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, the fan base and media alike were split down the middle. Some were upset that the possibility of drafting a franchise QB went out the window, and some were happy that Smith would be the franchise guy for a few years.
Of course, now that the dust has settled, and the Raiders didn't draft a "franchise QB," everyone is pretty happy with the move. Sure, Cam Miller could certainly turn into that, but the Raiders are pretty set on Smith being the guy for at least the next two years, as the 2026 season on his contract sees the first potential out.
With Smith getting his extension done and the realization of him being the guy for some time now, fans and media are really starting to dive into his tape with the Seahawks. I mean, sure, we all know the story -- former second-round quarterback with the New York Jets turned backup journeyman turned Pro Bowl QB. But when you watch some of his tape since he's been the starter with the Seahawks, it's fascinating.
The guy doesn't see a throw he can't make. And, while yes, the numbers aren't astronomical, the Seahawks did not do a very good job of putting Smith in winning situations, whether it be coaching at times with the offensive coordinator and play calling, or whether it was the roster with the offensive line being bad.
But man, this dude can throw the ball. Even former quarterbacks in the NFL are raving about it.
"Been trying to tell y'all over the last several seasons: there may not be a better pure passer of the football on the planet at the moment." - Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns, and New Orleans Saints QB Luke McCown
For Geno Smith, a guy who is set to play for the Raiders, to get that type of hype and title from guys who have done it and seen it all, is exactly what you want to see if you're a fan of the silver and black. McCown was a 13 year NFL Veteran. Sure, he was a career backup, but he's seen a lot.
McCown was a backup behind Drew Brees and Matt Ryan with the Atlanta Falcons for a year after a long stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars. So, he's seen some good quarterback play in his time. If Smith is indeed as good as they say, throwing the ball, but with the Raiders, this fan base may lose it.
Think about the last time they had a QB who was an elite talent throwing the ball.