Nov 17, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll walks the sidelines against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Head coach Pete Carroll continues to support quarterback Geno Smith despite the Las Vegas Raiders’ disappointing performance this season. Following a tough 33-16 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on November 20, 2023, where Smith completed 27 of 42 passes for 238 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, questions about his starting position have emerged. With a low 19.9 QBR in that game, many analysts believe it may be time for the Raiders to consider alternatives.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Carroll expressed unwavering confidence in Smith. “I continue to really believe in him,” he stated. “I have no hesitation in telling you that. He’s an incredible player, and he’s busting his tail, he’s working at it really hard.” Smith’s commitment and effort were commended by Carroll, who added that the quarterback has not wavered in his determination and will ultimately succeed if the team provides better support.
Carroll’s loyalty to Smith is evident, stemming from their previous five seasons together with the Seattle Seahawks (2019-2023). After bringing Smith to the Raiders earlier this year, Carroll was optimistic about his potential to energize the team’s performance. However, the current season has raised concerns about whether continuing to play Smith is hindering the Raiders’ chances of winning.
As of Week 11, Smith shares the league lead in interceptions, tied with Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins at 13. He also ranks 31st out of 35 eligible quarterbacks in QBR, with a score of just 32.6. Despite these troubling statistics, it is important to note that Smith has faced significant challenges. According to Pro Football Focus, he has been pressured on 136 dropbacks, marking the sixth-highest rate in the NFL.
Compounding the issue, rookie running back Ashon Jeanty, selected in the sixth round, has struggled to make an impact, with only 554 rushing yards, placing him 19th in the league. This lack of offensive support raises the question of whether Smith can elevate the team’s performance under such conditions.
The Raiders might consider giving backup quarterback Kenny Pickett, a first-round pick in 2022, an opportunity to lead the team. In his first three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickett recorded 15 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions. Although his performance has been inconsistent, a change could be a risk worth taking given the Raiders’ current 2-8 record.
With the season not going as planned, the Raiders could benefit from experimenting with their roster. A shift in leadership may lead to losses, but this could also position the team for a higher draft pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. As it stands, it is clear that Smith may not represent the long-term future of the franchise, prompting discussions about the direction the Raiders should take moving forward.
Ultimately, the decisions made in the upcoming weeks will be pivotal for the Raiders. Whether Carroll maintains his faith in Smith or opts for a change, the team’s ability to regroup and perform will dictate their future in the league.
