In a significant move for the franchise, the Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed quarterback Geno Smith to a two-year contract extension, keeping him in Las Vegas through the 2027 season. This agreement marks a pivotal moment for both Smith and the Raiders, as they aim to stabilize their roster under the leadership of head coach Pete Carroll, who previously coached Smith during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks.

The deal, finalized after ongoing discussions since Smith’s trade from the Seahawks, is structured to provide the Raiders with a competitive edge. With an average annual salary of just under $40 million, Smith’s extension is considered a bargain, placing him outside the top 15 in quarterback salaries. This price point has drawn favorable comparisons to other recent quarterback contracts, and analysts view it as a strategic win for the Raiders.

Despite facing challenges last season, Smith showcased impressive statistics, ranking second in the league behind Joe Burrow in on-target percentage and fourth in completion percentage over expected. These figures suggest that Smith’s potential remains high, especially with a more balanced offense anticipated in Las Vegas.

The Raiders’ decision to extend Smith also signals a shift in their draft strategy. With the quarterback position seemingly secure, the team is expected to focus on acquiring skill players in the upcoming draft, potentially opting against selecting a quarterback in the first round. This move underscores the Raiders’ commitment to building a competitive team around Smith and Carroll.

Geno Smith’s journey has been remarkable, transitioning from limited starts to leading the NFL in completion percentage in 2022. His contract extension not only secures his future in Las Vegas but also reflects the Raiders’ intention to rebuild and enhance their performance in the coming seasons. As the franchise prepares for the draft, fans and analysts alike are optimistic about the direction in which the Raiders are headed.