The Las Vegas Raiders, a franchise steeped in a rich and often tumultuous history, have consistently found the quarterback position to be a focal point of discussion, speculation, and at times, controversy. As of mid-2025, the Raiders are navigating a new chapter at the helm, with recent acquisitions and ongoing developments shaping their quarterback room and the team’s prospects for the upcoming season. This article delves into the current state of the Raiders’ quarterbacks, their recent performances, the historical context of the position for the franchise, and what the future may hold.
The Current Landscape: Geno Smith at the Helm
The most significant development in the Raiders’ quarterback situation for the 2025 season is the acquisition of Geno Smith. After a stint with the Seattle Seahawks where he impressively resurrected his career, Smith joined the Silver and Black earlier this offseason, signing a multi-year contract extension. This move signals a clear intent from the Raiders to bring stability and a proven veteran presence to the quarterback position, a luxury they haven’t consistently enjoyed in recent years.
Smith’s journey to becoming the Raiders’ starting quarterback is a compelling narrative. After flaming out with the New York Jets earlier in his career, many believed his time as a starting NFL quarterback was over. However, under Pete Carroll in Seattle, Smith found his stride, displaying strong command of the offense and emerging as one of the most accurate signal-callers in the league. While he may not be considered an “elite” quarterback, his consistent performance, including guiding the Seahawks to two 9-8 finishes and a 10-7 record, makes him a significant upgrade for a Raiders team that has struggled to achieve nine wins in the past eight seasons.
His arrival has shifted the dynamic within the Raiders’ quarterback room. During Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Smith has emphasized his focus on daily improvement and building chemistry with his new teammates and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The learning of a new scheme under Kelly highlights the critical nature of this offseason for Smith and the entire Raiders offense. The hope is that Smith’s experience and leadership will provide the foundation for a more consistent and productive offensive attack.
The Depth Chart: Aidan O’Connell and Cam Miller
Behind Geno Smith, the Raiders’ depth chart for the 2025 season features Aidan O’Connell and rookie Cam Miller, along with Carter Bradley. O’Connell, who was drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, had a notable 2024 season. After a preseason competition with then-free agent signing Gardner Minshew, O’Connell began the 2024 season as the backup. However, a 2-3 start for the Raiders saw him elevated to the starting role in October.
O’Connell’s 2024 season was a mixed bag, marked by flashes of potential and unfortunate injury setbacks. He showed resilience and ability, including his first career 300-yard passing performance with two touchdowns and zero interceptions in a return from injury. However, he also suffered a fractured thumb and a bone bruise to his knee, which sidelined him for several games. Despite a 2-5 record as a starter in 2024, O’Connell demonstrated he could compete at the NFL level, finishing with 3,830 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His 62.6% completion rate and 85.1 passer rating indicate a player who, with further development and consistency, could still have a future in the league. For 2025, he is expected to serve as the primary backup to Geno Smith, providing valuable experience and a viable option should Smith face injury or performance issues.
The Raiders further bolstered their quarterback depth in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Cam Miller from North Dakota State in the sixth round. Miller brings a winning pedigree to the Raiders, having led the Bison to a remarkable 45-11 record as a starting quarterback and two NCAA Division I FCS national championships. His college career statistics, including breaking school records in total offense, completion percentage, and passing yards, demonstrate his talent and potential. While he is expected to begin his NFL career as a developmental prospect, Miller’s success at the collegiate level and his ability to win consistently make him an intriguing addition to the Raiders’ quarterback room for the long term.
The Departed: Gardner Minshew’s Brief Stint
One notable departure from the Raiders’ quarterback ranks in the 2025 offseason was Gardner Minshew II. Minshew joined the Raiders in 2024 and competed for the starting job, ultimately serving as a backup and starting nine games for the team. In his 2024 season with the Raiders, he completed 66.3% of his passes for 2,013 yards, with nine touchdowns and ten interceptions. After one season with the Silver and Black, Minshew was released and subsequently signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he is now serving as a backup. His departure further solidified the Raiders’ decision to pursue Geno Smith as their primary signal-caller.
A Historical Perspective: The Raiders’ QB Carousel
The Raiders’ search for a consistent, franchise quarterback has been a recurring theme throughout much of their history. From the swashbuckling era of Ken Stabler to the more recent struggles, the team has cycled through numerous quarterbacks, often with mixed results. The post-Rich Gannon era, in particular, has seen a parade of signal-callers attempt to fill the void, leading to frequent quarterback controversies and instability at the most critical position on the field.
The team’s hiring of Pete Carroll as head coach and the strategic drafting and signing of players like Jack Bech, a wide receiver who embodies stability and resilience, underscore the franchise’s current emphasis on building a grounded and consistent team culture. This philosophical shift extends to the quarterback position, where the hope is that Geno Smith can provide the long-term stability that has often eluded the Raiders.
The influence of minority owner and NFL legend Tom Brady also adds an interesting layer to the Raiders’ quarterback narrative. While Brady has publicly stated he is not part of the evaluation process, reports suggest he was “all-in” on the acquisition of Geno Smith and the drafting of Cam Miller. Brady’s well-documented competitive edge and work ethic are qualities the Raiders appear to be prioritizing in their quarterback selections.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for 2025 and Beyond
The 2025 season promises to be a critical one for the Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback situation. With Geno Smith as the veteran leader, supported by the developing talent of Aidan O’Connell and the potential of rookie Cam Miller, the team is aiming for a more stable and productive offense. The success of this unit will largely depend on Smith’s ability to seamlessly integrate into Chip Kelly’s new offensive scheme and O’Connell’s continued growth as a backup.
The Raiders’ persistent quest for quarterback excellence has been a defining characteristic of their modern history. The current setup represents a deliberate shift towards experience and reliability with Smith, while simultaneously investing in the future with O’Connell and Miller. The coming months will reveal whether this calculated approach can finally bring sustained success and end the perennial quarterback discussions that have long defined the Las Vegas Raiders.
Offensive Scheme under Chip Kelly
Adding another layer to the Raiders’ offensive identity is the implementation of a new scheme under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Kelly’s offenses are known for their fast pace, RPO (run-pass option) concepts, and emphasis on getting the ball to playmakers in space. Geno Smith’s experience and accuracy, combined with his mobility, make him a suitable fit for Kelly’s system. The ability of Smith to quickly process information and distribute the ball will be crucial for the success of this new offense.
The development of rookie wide receiver Jack Bech, drafted in the second round, is also tied to the quarterback situation. Bech is expected to be an immediate contributor and the team’s number two receiver. His ability to create separation and make contested catches will be vital for Smith. The synergy between quarterback and receiver will be a key storyline to watch as the season progresses.
FAQs
What is Cam Miller’s contract with the Raiders?
Cam Miller, drafted in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, signed a four-year, $4,374,280 rookie contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. This deal includes a $174,280 signing bonus and $174,280 guaranteed. His contract runs through the 2028 season. In 2025, Miller will earn a base salary of $840,000 and a signing bonus of $174,280, with a cap hit of $883,570.
What are the expectations for the Raiders’ quarterbacks in 2025?
The primary expectation is for Geno Smith to bring stability and consistent play to the starting position. His experience and accuracy are seen as vital for the new offensive scheme under Chip Kelly. Aidan O’Connell is expected to provide a reliable backup option, having gained valuable experience in the 2024 season. Cam Miller is viewed as a long-term developmental prospect, with his winning college pedigree suggesting future potential. The overall hope is for a more productive and disciplined offensive unit, led by the quarterback room.
Who is the Raiders’ starting quarterback for the 2025 season?
The Las Vegas Raiders’ starting quarterback for the 2025 season is Geno Smith. He was acquired by the Raiders via trade from the Seattle Seahawks and subsequently signed a contract extension.
What is Geno Smith’s contract with the Raiders?
Geno Smith signed a two-year contract extension with the Las Vegas Raiders worth a maximum of $85.5 million, including $66.5 million guaranteed. The deal runs through the 2027 season. In 2025, Smith is set to earn a base salary of $24 million and a roster bonus of $16 million, totaling a $40 million cap hit. The contract structure provides the Raiders with flexibility, particularly in 2027 where there is no guaranteed money.
Conclusion: A Calculated Rebuild
The Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback situation in 2025 is a result of a calculated and multi-faceted approach. They’ve opted for veteran stability and proven production in Geno Smith, while simultaneously investing in the future with Aidan O’Connell and Cam Miller. The influence of Pete Carroll’s coaching philosophy and Tom Brady’s strategic input further underscore a commitment to building a sustainable winning culture. The success of this quarterback room, both in the short and long term, will be a major determinant of whether the Raiders can finally emerge from years of inconsistency and reclaim their place as a formidable force in the NFL. The answers to the lingering questions about this pivotal position will begin to unfold as the 2025 season gets underway.
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