Geno Smith Injury Update: Raiders QB Faces Criticism After Broncos Game
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith came under scrutiny after sustaining what many called a "dirty hit" during the Thursday matchup against the Denver Broncos. The veteran QB, who endured five first-half sacks, appeared to injure his leg while scrambling after a tackle from Nik Bonitto.
Following the play, Smith was evaluated in the blue medical tent, then returned to the sidelines to test his knee with some light jogging as trainers observed. Despite the concern, he later re-entered the game while Las Vegas trailed by only three points.
“Take Geno Smith out of the game, please,” one fan wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Nik Bonitto, who made the tackle, watched from the sideline as Smith’s status was assessed. With Smith temporarily sidelined, Kenny Pickett stepped in as quarterback. Pickett remains the only fully healthy option on the roster, while Cam Miller continues on the practice squad and Aidan O’Connell remains on injured reserve.
Social media reactions were sharp, with some users pointing out Smith’s struggles this season, including his league-high 12 interceptions. The Raiders took a chance on Smith this offseason, hoping his experience would bring steadiness to the offense, but the results have yet to meet expectations midway through the campaign. The team entered the game with a 2–6 record.
Author’s Summary
The Raiders' hope in Geno Smith’s leadership is faltering as both injury concerns and inconsistent play shadow an already struggling Las Vegas season.