Geno Smith’s Struggles with the Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves grappling with a familiar dilemma: the search for a reliable quarterback. After a promising trade that sent a third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for Geno Smith, the organization hoped they had secured a solution. However, as the season unfolds, the results have been far from what was anticipated.
A Season of Challenges
The 2023 season has proven to be a trying one for the Raiders, with a series of missteps compounding their struggles. From injuries to inconsistent performances, the team has faced issues at nearly every turn. Among those affected most severely by the team’s shortcomings is Smith, who has faced an uphill battle throughout the season.
Offensive Line Woes
One of the most significant obstacles for Smith has been the Raiders’ beleaguered offensive line. This critical unit has struggled to provide the protection needed for any quarterback to succeed, and Smith has felt the brunt of that inadequacy. The lack of support has rendered the investment in Smith nearly moot, stifling any potential for him to thrive in his new environment.
Ranking Among Peers
Recent evaluations have not been kind to Smith. Cody Benjamin from CBS Sports recently compiled rankings of every starting quarterback in the NFL, placing Smith at a disappointing 29th overall. This assessment underscores the disparity between the version of Smith the Raiders expected to acquire and the reality they have encountered.
A Broader Context
While Smith’s performance has certainly drawn scrutiny, the challenges facing the Raiders extend well beyond the quarterback position. The entire roster has been plagued by issues that hinder overall team performance. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen if the organization can find a way to rectify these problems and provide Smith—and the team as a whole—with the necessary resources to compete effectively.
The Raiders’ quarterback saga continues, leaving fans wondering if the solution was ever truly within reach.
