In a move that signals the Las Vegas Raiders’ commitment to their quarterback situation, the team has reportedly agreed to a two-year contract extension with Geno Smith worth $85.5 million. This deal includes a hefty $66.5 million guaranteed, solidifying Smith’s place as the team’s leader for the immediate future.

Smith, who revitalized his career with the Seattle Seahawks, is now making his way to the Raiders after an impressive season that earned him NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors in 2022. He had a breakthrough campaign under head coach Pete Carroll, throwing for over 4,200 yards, 30 touchdowns, and completing nearly 70% of his passes. His performance last season made it clear that the veteran quarterback, originally drafted by the Jets, still had a lot left in the tank.

The Raiders’ decision to sign Smith to such a lucrative deal reflects their desire to build stability at the quarterback position. After parting ways with Derek Carr earlier in the offseason, the franchise has been searching for a dependable signal-caller. Geno Smith, at 33 years old, offers a unique blend of experience, leadership, and playmaking ability that could help the Raiders become more competitive in the AFC.

While the Raiders have other quarterbacks on their roster, including Jimmy Garoppolo, Smith’s deal signals that he will be the team’s primary starter going forward. The significant guarantee in the contract shows the franchise’s confidence in him to be the long-term answer under center. His experience in big-game scenarios and ability to lead a high-powered offense could be exactly what the Raiders need as they aim to make a playoff push in the increasingly tough AFC West.

The extension also provides the Raiders with some flexibility. With $66.5 million guaranteed, Smith’s deal is structured to give the team cap relief in the coming years. This could allow Las Vegas to bolster other areas of their roster, including the offensive line and defensive backfield, both of which have been areas of concern in recent seasons.

Smith’s addition to the Raiders is part of a broader trend across the NFL where teams are looking to secure veteran quarterbacks to provide both leadership and stability. The Raiders will now rely on his experience and continued growth to help bring the team back to prominence in one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL.

This deal will certainly be one to watch as the Raiders move into the 2025 season, as Geno Smith attempts to build on his remarkable comeback story in a new chapter of his career with Las Vegas.