Raiders Bench Geno Smith; Meyers Requests Trade

The Las Vegas Raiders are 2-5 and reeling after a 31-0 loss to the Chiefs in which Geno Smith was benched for Kenny Pickett, highlighting a stalled offense. Smith’s 2025 numbers — roughly 1,417 yards, seven touchdowns, 10 interceptions and 19 sacks — have him among the league leaders in interceptions and under heavy scrutiny. Head coach Pete Carroll has defended Smith as “turning the corner,” but Smith’s contract, including an $18.5 million guaranteed salary for 2026 and a rising base, creates severe salary‑cap and dead‑cap constraints that limit cutting or trading options. Veteran receiver Jakobi Meyers — in the final year of his deal after extension talks collapsed — is openly seeking a trade, with teams including the Broncos, Steelers and Bills reported as possible suitors. The combination of a high‑paid, hard‑to‑move quarterback and a disgruntled top receiver presents urgent roster‑building decisions for the Raiders as they try to avoid losing assets for nothing and restore competitiveness.