The Las Vegas Raiders are set to release quarterback Geno Smith at the start of the upcoming league year, according to a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The decision follows a period where the organization was reportedly aggressively shopping the veteran signal-caller to other teams across the league.
According to Rapoport, the move comes as no surprise given the Raiders' current draft capital. The team currently holds the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft and is widely expected to use that selection on a new franchise quarterback. By releasing Smith at the start of the league year, the Raiders will allow the veteran to enter free agency and seek a new home ahead of the new season.
The Raiders had spent the past few days attempting to facilitate a trade for Smith, but after failing to find a suitable partner, the front office has opted for an outright release. This move marks a definitive shift in the team's roster construction as they pivot toward the incoming rookie class and the top overall selection.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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