A Fresh Start in Las Vegas

Geno Smith has found a new home with the Las Vegas Raiders, and he couldn't be happier. After spending six seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, Smith feels that the fast-paced lifestyle and warm weather of Las Vegas are a perfect fit for him. "Vegas is perfect for me," Smith told ESPN. "I really didn't fit the culture in Seattle."

A New Chapter

For the first time in his career, Smith walked into a new organization as the starting quarterback. The Raiders traded for Smith from Seattle in exchange for a third-round pick on March 7, with the intention of him leading the franchise. "I finally got my team," Smith said. "I always felt like I was trying to replace Russell Wilson in Seattle, and you can never replace all the great things that he did."

Building a Winning Culture

Smith is a part of the Raiders' plan to turn around a franchise that has become accustomed to losing. With Smith under center, there's optimism within the organization that the team can be competitive this season. Smith's strong relationship with Pete Carroll and his fiery competitive spirit can help set the tone for the type of culture the veteran NFL coach wants to establish.

Carroll's Belief in Smith

Smith might have never been in Las Vegas -- or Seattle -- if not for Carroll. After making 29 starts in his first two seasons after his selection by the New York Jets in 2013, Smith spent the subsequent five years as a backup for the Jets, Giants, and Chargers. It was Pete Carroll's belief in Smith that helped give him new life as a starting quarterback in Seattle.

Looking Ahead

Smith has lofty goals for his time in Las Vegas. Like most players, he wants to win the division and a championship. His aspirations for winning might seem like a tall task given the nature of the AFC West. The three other teams in the division won at least 10 games and made postseason appearances in 2024. The Kansas City Chiefs have won three Super Bowls in five appearances over the past six seasons.

Embracing the Challenge

Smith says he and the rest of the team have embraced the "us versus the world" mentality. Carroll built his first roster in Las Vegas with players who had something to prove or had been counted out. Smith perfectly embodies the identity of Carroll's group. And he's fine with it. "I've kind of been nobody's favorite player, but I thrive in that role," Smith said. "I love being the hunter."