Geno Smith Traded Back to Jets

Veteran QB returns to team that drafted him in 2013

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Las Vegas Raiders have agreed to trade veteran quarterback Geno Smith back to the New York Jets, the team that originally drafted him in the second round in 2013. Smith spent his first two NFL seasons as the Jets' starting QB before a locker room incident ended his tenure with the team. He's now excited to "complete the full circle" and reconnect with the Jets organization and fanbase.

Why it matters

This trade marks a homecoming for Smith, who is looking to revive his career after a disappointing 2025 season with the Raiders. The Jets are taking a chance on the 32-year-old quarterback in hopes that he can recapture the promise he showed early in his career.

The details

Smith was the Jets' starting QB right out of the gate in 2013 but struggled with turnovers, throwing 34 interceptions in 30 games. His time as the Jets' starter ended abruptly in 2015 when he was punched in the jaw by teammate IK Enemkpali in the locker room, sidelining him for the start of the season. Smith spent two more years with the Jets as a backup before joining the Seahawks in 2019 and the Raiders in 2024.

  • Geno Smith was drafted by the Jets in the 2nd round in 2013.
  • Smith started for the Jets from 2013-2015 before the locker room incident.
  • Smith spent 2016-2018 as a backup with the Jets before joining the Seahawks.
  • Smith signed with the Raiders in 2024 and started for them in 2025.

The players

Geno Smith

A 32-year-old veteran quarterback who was originally drafted by the Jets in 2013 and is now returning to the team after stints with the Seahawks and Raiders.

IK Enemkpali

A former Jets linebacker who punched Geno Smith in the jaw in 2015, ending Smith's tenure as the team's starting QB.

New York Jets

The NFL team that drafted Geno Smith in 2013 and is now reacquiring him in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team that traded veteran QB Geno Smith back to the New York Jets, the team that originally drafted him.

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What they’re saying

“Complete full circle moment back to where it all began. I'm excited to connect with my new teammates and coaches and everyone in the building as well as build a new relationship with the fan base and community.”

— Geno Smith (NFL Media)

What’s next

The Jets will look to integrate Smith into their offense and see if he can regain the form that made him a promising young QB early in his career.

The takeaway

This trade represents a fresh start for Geno Smith, who is looking to prove he can still be a productive starting quarterback in the NFL after a tumultuous tenure with the Jets and mixed results with the Raiders. The Jets are taking a low-risk chance on a familiar face in hopes of stabilizing their QB position.