Geno Smith Returns To Jets In Trade

The Las Vegas Raiders have sent Geno Smith back to the New York Jets in a trade.

The Jets sent their sixth-round pick to the Raiders. The Raiders will absorb most of Smith’s salary.

Smith was drafted by the Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Starting quarterback Mark Sanchez tore his labrum in the preseason, leading to Smith being named the starter. Smith had an up-and-down rookie season. He threw 21 interceptions, but led the league with five game-winning drives. 

The Jets believed in Smith’s potential heading into the 2014 season. He cut his interceptions down to 13, but saw a decline in most other aspects of the game. 

Ryan Fitzpatrick was signed by the Jets in the 2015 offseason. He was the Jets’ starting QB for the next two seasons. Smith played in just three games. After his rookie deal expired in the 2017 offseason, he signed with the New York Giants. 

After the Seattle Seahawks traded Russell Wilson in the 2022 offseason, Smith was given a chance to start. He threw 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, which got him his first Pro Bowl appearance.

After three strong seasons with the Seahawks, the Raiders traded for him in the 2025 offseason. He led the league in interceptions last season with 17.

Frank Reich was named the Jets’ offensive coordinator this offseason. Reich runs a West Coast-style offense that emphasizes speed. 

This is different from the offensive system he was in when he shone with the Seahawks. Seahawks’ offensive coordinator Shane Waldron prefers outside runs and pre-snap movement rather than speed. 

Smith has had on-and-off problems with interceptions throughout his career. A fast-paced system could possibly make these issues worse.

Smith will compete with Justin Fields for the starting QB job during training camp.