Overview
- Smith exited the 24-17 defeat to the Broncos with a right shoulder injury after earlier hurting his right hand and did not return.
- Kenny Pickett took over to start the fourth quarter and went 8-of-11 for 97 yards and a touchdown, leading two late scoring drives.
- Carroll said Smith’s shoulder is “really locked up” but initial tests showed no damage, adding he won’t play Smith in Week 15 if he isn’t right.
- Carroll indicated he would start Smith against the Eagles if healthy and is comfortable turning to Pickett if necessary.
- Las Vegas fell to 2-11 with seven straight losses and now sits No. 2 in the draft order, intensifying projections the team will pursue a first-round quarterback as Smith’s season-long struggles draw scrutiny.