Raiders Keep Geno Smith as Calls Mount to Try Kenny Pickett
Advanced metrics point to a sharp slide in accuracy and decision-making through five games.
Overview
- Las Vegas is 1–4 after a 40–6 loss to the Colts, and Smith leads the NFL with nine interceptions through five games.
- Pete Carroll explained he kept Smith in during the blowout to maximize game reps and continuity, saying the team needs turns in the system to improve.
- Former Raiders Rashad Jennings and James Jones urged the staff to give Kenny Pickett snaps to evaluate the offense during lopsided games.
- Analysis from The Athletic and PFF highlights regression, including an off-target rate rising to 9.2% and turnover-worthy plays doubling to 5.2%, with league-high counts under pressure.
- Kenny Pickett offers a tested alternative with 25 career starts and 4,765 passing yards, while Derek Carr publicly encouraged Smith to steady the team.