Geno Smith, the Las Vegas Raiders quarterback, faced criticism even after returning from a questionable hit during their Thursday game against the Denver Broncos. Despite enduring up to five sacks in the first half, Smith went down awkwardly following a tackle by Nik Bonitto, seemingly injuring his leg during what appeared to be a routine scramble.
Smith was taken to a blue medical tent and later tested his knee on the sideline with light jogging while trainers assessed his condition. Although injured, he returned to attempt to finish the game, with the Raiders trailing by just three points at that moment.
Nik Bonitto did not react visibly to Smith’s injury on the field. After Smith went out, Kenny Pickett assumed the quarterback position and remains the only fully healthy QB on the roster, as Cam Miller is on the practice squad and Aidan O’Connell is on injured reserve.
The Raiders had high hopes for Smith’s veteran leadership when signing him this offseason, aiming to stabilize their offense. However, midway through the season, Smith has struggled with inconsistency, and the team held a 2-6 record before facing the Broncos.
“Take Geno Smith out of the game, please.”
Smith has thrown the most interceptions this season, at 12.
Author's summary: Geno Smith’s return after an injury highlights ongoing struggles for the Raiders, while social media criticism intensifies amid the team's disappointing season.