The Las Vegas Raiders made a notable move this offseason by acquiring two-time Pro Bowl quarterback. New general manager John Spytek viewed him as a clear upgrade over Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell, prompting the team to send a third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks to secure the veteran signal-caller.
Smith, who won the NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award in 2022 after earning the starting role with head coach Pete Carroll, is now reunited with Carroll in Las Vegas.
Geno Smith has not only revitalized his NFL career in recent years, but his family name continues to make headlines thanks to his cousin, Jeremiah Smith — a standout wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes who has quickly risen to prominence in college football.
As a freshman at Ohio State — playing under now-Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly — Jeremiah Smith delivered one of the most impressive seasons in the nation. He hauled in 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, while also adding 47 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground.
With expectations continuing to soar for Jeremiah heading into his sophomore year, his cousin Geno Smith took to social media to show his support, sending him an encouraging message.
“All ball,” Geno Smith wrote — a simple but powerful message of focus and support for his cousin, Jeremiah Smith, as both prepare for pivotal seasons at their respective levels.
This year, Geno Smith will get his chance to shine under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Smith will face some adjustments at Ohio State, as the Buckeyes transition to a new quarterback and play-caller.
The Raiders are set to kick off their 2025 season against the New England Patriots in Week 1, while Ohio State opens with a high-stakes matchup against the Texas Longhorns in late August.