Raiders Complete Many NFL Deals This Week

The actual process of players putting pen to paper is a formality during free agency as deals have already been reported for several days.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Raiders completed several trades and free agent signings on Wednesday, including sending former starting quarterback Geno Smith to the Jets and acquiring cornerback Taron Johnson from the Bills. The team also officially signed kicker Matt Gay and edge defender Malcolm Koonce. Only one outside free agent, linebacker Nakobe Dean, had officially signed by the end of the day, with more expected on Thursday. Additionally, former Raiders players Dylan Parham and Lonnie Johnson Jr. agreed to deals with the Jets and Dolphins, respectively.

Why it matters

The Raiders' offseason moves are closely watched as the team looks to build on its recent success and compete in the AFC West. The trades and signings provide insight into the team's strategy and priorities as it shapes the roster for the upcoming season.

The details

The Raiders completed a pair of pick swaps, sending former starting quarterback Geno Smith to the Jets and acquiring cornerback Taron Johnson from the Bills. The team also officially signed kicker Matt Gay, who had been released in December, and edge defender Malcolm Koonce, who was already on the roster. Only one outside free agent, linebacker Nakobe Dean, had officially signed with the team by the end of the day, with more expected on Thursday. Additionally, former Raiders players Dylan Parham and Lonnie Johnson Jr. agreed to deals with the Jets and Dolphins, respectively.

  • The new league year started at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Geno Smith

Former starting quarterback for the Raiders who was traded to the Jets.

Taron Johnson

Cornerback acquired by the Raiders in a trade with the Bills.

Matt Gay

Kicker signed by the Raiders after being released in December.

Malcolm Koonce

Edge defender who was already on the Raiders' roster and officially signed.

Nakobe Dean

Linebacker who spent his first four seasons with the Eagles and officially signed with the Raiders on Wednesday.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

More outside free agent signings are expected to be announced by the Raiders on Thursday.

The takeaway

The Raiders' offseason moves, including trades, free agent signings, and retaining their own players, provide insight into the team's strategy as it looks to build on its recent success and compete in the AFC West.