The Las Vegas Raiders’ acquisition of Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks during the offseason signaled a clear intention to secure him for the long term. While initial reports suggested a potential impasse in contract negotiations, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated clarifies that the situation is more akin to standard negotiation processes.
Insider: Las Vegas Raiders and Geno Smith Stuck On New Contract
“I don’t think there’s a holdup. It’s more of just negotiation. I also don’t think the Las Vegas Raiders move to land Smith without a strong feeling they could find common ground on an extension,” Breer wrote. “The Seattle Seahawks, for their part, felt like they were doing Smith a favor with the trade in that Vegas had a better shot at doing a contract with him than Seattle did (they were far apart on the numbers at the end). But if you make me guess, I’d say the guarantees are probably what needs to be worked out.”
The Raiders’ decision to trade for Smith inherently implies their commitment to extending his contract, suggesting that an agreement is likely.
The primary point of contention appears to be the guaranteed money within the contract. Smith is reportedly seeking an annual salary between $40-$45 million, reflecting his recent strong performances. However, his 2024 season, which included the third-most interceptions in the league and a missed postseason appearance for the Seahawks, raises questions about his long-term value.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s YouTube Channel
Furthermore, Smith’s age, 34, adds a layer of complexity to negotiations, as the Raiders may be hesitant to commit significant long-term financial resources. Nevertheless, the expectation remains that both parties will reach a mutually agreeable contract before the start of the season.
The Raiders are aiming for a significant turnaround from their previous season, starting with the hiring of Pete Carroll as head coach. Their commitment to building a competitive team is evident in Maxx Crosby’s substantial contract extension. With the sixth overall pick in the NFL Draft, they have an opportunity to further enhance their roster. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the Raiders have positioned themselves to potentially surprise many observers.