Las Vegas is buzzing with NFL excitement as the offseason unfolds. The Las Vegas Raiders are making headlines, especially with their search for a new quarterback. After a disappointing 2024 season, where the team cycled through three quarterbacks—Gardner Minshew, Desmond Ridder, and Aidan O’Connell—to a disappointing 4-13 record, it’s clear that a change is needed at the position.
One name that got fans talking was Sam Darnold, who had a stellar season leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record last year. The Vikings decided against placing the franchise tag on him, allowing him to enter free agency, prompting speculation about the Raiders potentially signing him. However, Darnold ended up not joining the Raiders, and there seems to be a notable reason behind that.
Reports indicate that Tom Brady, a new minority owner of the Raiders, was “not in favor” of the team pursuing Darnold. With Brady’s vast experience and influence in the organization, the Raiders likely took his opinion seriously. In previous statements, Raiders owner Mark Davis expressed the desire for Brady to have a “huge voice” in team decisions. It seems that voice was heard loud and clear.
With Darnold off the table, the Raiders made a move to acquire veteran quarterback Geno Smith. The team traded a 2025 third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for Smith, who is eager to learn and grow with the guidance of Brady. Smith acknowledged, “I want to be a sponge” when it comes to soaking up Brady’s knowledge.
The Seahawks, in turn, filled their quarterback vacancy by signing Darnold. While the two teams won’t clash in the regular season, they are set to face off in the preseason opener on August 7 in Seattle. Fans can expect an intriguing matchup as new faces take the field for both teams.
As the Raiders continue to revamp their roster, all eyes will be on how well Smith can adapt under Brady’s mentorship and how the team’s dynamics evolve in the coming season.
