After rolling with Geno Smith as the starter for the first 13 games of the season, the Las Vegas Raiders might finally have to shake things up. Smith had to leave the Week 14 game against the Denver Broncos early due to a shoulder injury.
The Raiders haven’t announced his status for Week 15 yet, but he has been held out of practice this week. The sample size is very small, but the offense looked much more efficient with Kenny Pickett under center than it did with Smith.
In a lost season, there’s no reason to rush Smith back onto the field, so there’s a strong chance that Pickett will start against the Philadelphia Eagles. It has been a frustrating season for running back Ashton Jeanty. He was the favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year before the season, but now he’s not even in the top 10.
If the offense can be more efficient with Pickett under center, Jeanty’s numbers should be better. He shared some praise for the young quarterback and how he played against the Broncos.
“He came in with good energy,” Jeanty told reporters on Wednesday. “Obviously, he was able to put some points on the board, so just execution. He practices well. Whether he goes or not, I know he’s gonna work hard and be ready for the opportunity.”
Pete Carroll Offers Thoughts on Pickett
Head coach Pete Carroll is very loyal to Smith. The two had some success in Seattle, and Smith is a huge reason why the team was still competitive after trading Russell Wilson.
In this scenario, he has the perfect excuse to give Pickett a chance to play without betraying Smith. Carroll thinks highly of the former first-round pick and thinks the Raiders can still have success with him under center.
“I love the way he prepares in practice,” Carroll said. “He looked very good in the game the other night. … Big plays, escaped a little bit, got a little running in. If he gets the chance to go, that’s a good lead-in for it.”
Could Smith Still Play vs. Eagles?
The Raiders haven’t ruled Smith out, but his chances of playing Week 15 look slim. However, he’s proven his toughness this season and could fight to play. If Pickett comes in and plays well, there’s a chance Smith never takes another snap for the Raiders.
He has to be aware of that, so he’ll be motivated to get back on the field. At the same time, it’s up to Las Vegas to ensure they put the best quarterback on the field.
The offense has already been a nightmare to watch with Smith. He’s tied for the NFL lead with 14 interceptions and 49 sacks taken. He also has the second-worst QBR in the league. The Raiders offense can’t be much worse with Pickett at quarterback, so it doesn’t hurt to try.
The only thing that would get Smith the start is if he really fights to be on the field and Carroll gives him the nod out of respect. That seems unlikely, as the Eagles still have a scary defensive line, even in a down year.
Ashton Jeanty Has Strong Message on Kenny Pickett Amid Geno Smith Injury