Geno Smith Injury Update: Raiders QB Faces Criticism After Hit vs Broncos
Geno Smith encountered criticism even after returning to play following a questionable hit during the game against the Denver Broncos on Thursday. The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback endured up to five sacks in the first half and then went down awkwardly after a tackle by Nik Bonitto, which appeared to cause a leg injury during a seemingly routine scramble.
Smith spent time in the medical tent before testing his knee on the sidelines, engaging in light jogging as trainers assessed his condition. Despite the injury, he made his way back to the field to continue playing. At that point, the Raiders were trailing by just three points.
After Smith’s injury, Bonitto’s reaction was simply to watch from a distance. Following the injury, Kenny Pickett stepped in at quarterback. Pickett is currently the only fully healthy QB on the Raiders’ roster, with Cam Miller on the practice squad and Aidan O’Connell on injured reserve.
Social Media Reaction and Team Context
Smith faced backlash on social networks as well. One user urged,
“Take Geno Smith out of the game, please.”Another pointed out that Smith leads the team in interceptions this season, totaling 12.
The Raiders took a risk by signing Geno Smith this offseason, hoping his experience would bring stability to their offense. However, midway through the season, that strategy has yet to prove successful, as Smith has struggled with consistency. Coming into the Broncos game, the Raiders held a 2-6 record.
Quote from Nik Bonitto
Nik Bonitto appeared to simply observe after Smith’s injury without immediate reaction.
Quarterbacks Status
- Kenny Pickett - Only healthy QB currently active on the roster
- Cam Miller - Practice squad
- Aidan O’Connell - Injured reserve
Author's summary: Despite Geno Smith’s toughness in returning after an injury, his inconsistent performance and high interception rate are drawing criticism as the Raiders struggle midway through the season.