Geno Smith injured: Raiders QB fights through pain after brutal hit in Broncos loss, here’s when he’ll return
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith. Image Source: ESPN
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith faced another tough night in a frustrating 10-7 loss to the Denver Broncos, and this time, injury added insult. Smith suffered a quad contusion early in the fourth quarter but managed to play through the pain before being sidelined late in the game.
What Happened to Geno Smith?
Smith’s injury occurred on a first-and-10 play from the Raiders’ 31-yard line. The 35-year-old quarterback scrambled right for open space but was tripped by linebacker Nik Bonitto before being hit late by Malcolm Roach, whose knee struck Smith’s thigh. Trainers attended to him on the sideline before he briefly returned to action.
Despite being clearly hobbled, Smith fought to stay on the field. “I never want to leave my teammates out there alone,” he told reporters. “I felt like I could try to tough it out, and that’s what I tried to do.”
Pete Carroll’s Update on Geno Smith’s Injury
Head coach Pete Carroll confirmed postgame that the injury is not considered serious and likely won’t sideline Smith long-term.
“This is not one that he can’t get back from,” Carroll said. “He got a quad bruise. He got smacked. That’s just him fighting.”
Smith is expected to use the team’s mini-bye to recover before facing the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football (Nov. 17).
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How Geno Smith Performed Before the Injury
Before leaving the game, Smith endured one of his toughest outings of the season. He completed 16 of 26 passes for 143 yards with one interception and was sacked six times.
It’s been a challenging first season for Smith in Las Vegas following his reunion with Carroll. Through nine games, he’s thrown for 1,844 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, the most in the league.
The Raiders now sit at 2–7, facing their second potential four-game losing streak of the year.
What’s Next for the Raiders and Geno Smith
With a 10-day break before Week 11, Smith’s recovery timeline looks promising. However, if the quad contusion limits his mobility, backup Kenny Pickett may see more reps in practice.
The Raiders’ offense desperately needs to rebound against the Cowboys’ aggressive defense to keep postseason hopes alive. For now, all eyes are on Smith’s status heading into Monday Night Football.
NFL Fans React to Geno Smith’s Resilience
Despite the loss, Smith drew praise from fans and teammates for refusing to quit. His gritty performance echoes the perseverance that earned him the 2022 AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.
“He wanted to go back in the worst way,” Carroll said. “That’s just who he is.”
FAQ: Geno Smith Injury and Raiders Update (2025)
1. What happened to Geno Smith in the Raiders vs. Broncos game?
Geno Smith suffered a quad contusion after being hit during a scramble in the fourth quarter. He limped off briefly but returned before being ruled questionable to return.
2. How serious is Geno Smith’s injury?
According to coach Pete Carroll, the injury is not serious. Smith is expected to recover in time for the Raiders’ next game against the Cowboys.
3. Will Geno Smith play in Week 11?
As of now, Smith is day-to-day, but early reports suggest he’ll likely start on Monday Night Football barring setbacks.
4. How did Geno Smith perform before the injury?
He completed 16-of-26 passes for 143 yards and one interception. The Raiders’ offense struggled, managing just seven points in the loss.
5. What is Geno Smith’s 2025 season record so far?
Smith has thrown for 1,844 yards, 11 touchdowns, and a league-high 12 interceptions through nine games, with the Raiders holding a 2–7 record.
6. Who replaced Geno Smith after his injury?
BackupKenny Pickett filled in briefly before Smith returned to finish the game.
7. What did Pete Carroll say about Geno Smith’s toughness?
Carroll praised Smith’s determination, saying, “He wanted to go finish the game for his teammates. That’s just him fighting.”
8. When do the Raiders play next?
The Raiders face the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football, November 17, 2025.