FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Geno Smith’s NFL journey has come full circle. The veteran quarterback is returning to the New York Jets, the team that originally drafted him in 2013, in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. The move, finalized Tuesday, sees Smith and a seventh-round draft pick heading to New York in exchange for a sixth-round pick, according to reports. This reunion marks a significant shift for both franchises as they prepare for the 2026 season.
The trade brings Smith back to MetLife Stadium, where he first entered the league as a second-round selection. While his initial stint with the Jets was marked by inconsistency and ultimately led to his departure in 2016, the 35-year-old quarterback has since revitalized his career with stints in Seattle and Las Vegas. The Jets, coming off a disappointing 3-14 season under first-year head coach Aaron Glenn, are clearly signaling their intent to solidify the quarterback position.
A Full-Circle Moment for Geno Smith
The news of the trade prompted a reaction from Pete Carroll, Smith’s former head coach with both the Seattle Seahawks and the Raiders. Carroll, recently dismissed by the Raiders after a 3-14 season, expressed amusement and support for Smith’s return to New York. “I had to smile a little bit because of the history and all that,” Carroll told ESPN. He emphasized his continued belief in Smith’s ability to rebound from a challenging 2025 season in Las Vegas, where he led the league in interceptions and sacks.
Carroll took responsibility for Smith’s struggles with the Raiders, stating, “We didn’t coach him well enough.” He highlighted the strong relationship he developed with Smith over their six seasons together, expressing a deep respect for the quarterback’s perform ethic and character. “I love talking about G,” Carroll said. “I think I notice him differently than a lot of people. I love him and appreciate him in a different way.”
Smith’s 2025 season with the Raiders was a stark contrast to his Pro Bowl seasons with the Seahawks in 2022 and 2023. After a successful run in Seattle, where he led the league in completion percentage in 2022 and earned NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors, Smith struggled to replicate that success in Las Vegas. The Raiders finished with the worst record in the league, leading to Carroll’s dismissal and now, Smith’s departure.
What This Means for the Jets
For the Jets, acquiring Smith provides a veteran presence at quarterback, a position that has been a source of instability in recent years. The team has been searching for a long-term solution since the departure of Zach Wilson, and Smith offers a proven track record, albeit with some recent turbulence. The Jets reportedly renegotiated Smith’s contract, which had two years and $66 million remaining, as part of the trade.
Smith brings 12 seasons of NFL experience to the Jets, having completed 65.2% of his passes for 22,168 yards with 124 touchdowns and 89 interceptions across five teams. His familiarity with the New York market and the Jets organization could provide a quick adjustment period. He started 15 games for the Raiders last season, throwing for 3,035 yards with 19 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. Prior to his time in Las Vegas, Smith set career highs with the Seahawks, showcasing his potential as a highly effective passer.
The Jets’ acquisition of Smith also allows them to focus on other areas of need in the upcoming NFL Draft. With the quarterback situation addressed, they can prioritize strengthening their offensive line, improving their receiving corps, and bolstering their defense. The sixth-round pick sent to Las Vegas is a relatively small price to pay for a veteran quarterback with Smith’s experience and potential.
Raiders’ Outlook and Carroll’s Perspective
The Raiders, meanwhile, are widely expected to apply the draft to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick. The trade of Smith frees up cap space and allows the Raiders to move forward with a new quarterback to build around. The team now possesses 11 picks in the draft, providing them with ample flexibility to address multiple needs.
Carroll’s support for Smith’s move to New York underscores the quarterback’s resilience and character. He believes that if Smith feels supported and empowered in his new environment, he has the potential to thrive. “If he’s come to the conclusion that New York is a solid place for him, he really wants it and was involved in the decision, then I can only support him,” Carroll said. “If he understands the reasons, feels supported and sees the opportunity, I couldn’t be more for it. I like the guy and wish him all the best. He deserves it. He’s really worked hard to get to where he is.”
The Jets will begin their offseason program in April, giving Smith an opportunity to integrate into the offense and build rapport with his new teammates. The team’s success in 2026 will largely depend on Smith’s ability to regain his form and lead the offense effectively. The return to New York represents a new chapter for Geno Smith, and a chance to rewrite his narrative in the city where his NFL career began.
Next Up: The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Detroit, Michigan. The Jets will glance to add talent around Smith to improve their chances of competing in the AFC East.
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