Falcons Eyeing Geno Smith as QB Solution

The Atlanta Falcons are actively seeking to bolster their quarterback position, with several prominent names, including Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray, previously linked to the team. Recently, Geno Smith has surfaced as a new potential acquisition following a move by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Smith is reportedly set to be released by the Raiders next week, unless a trade intervenes before the league year begins on Wednesday. The veteran quarterback had previously signed a two-year, $75 million extension with the Raiders after being traded from the Seattle Seahawks. His tenure in Las Vegas did not meet expectations, as he threw 17 interceptions to 19 touchdowns over 3,025 yards, leading to him being benched mid-season.

However, Smith experienced significant success under coach Pete Carroll in Seattle, where he started 35 games. During that period, he completed 67.5% of his passes for 8,6078 yards, threw 55 touchdowns against 21 interceptions, and was a two-time Pro Bowler, even winning the AP Comeback Player of the Year in 2022. The Falcons, in need of a quarterback, may view Smith as an adequate option, given his demonstrated ability to perform at a high level and push the ball downfield, potentially benefiting from better guidance in Atlanta.

Should the Falcons not pursue a starting-caliber option like Smith, a pool of free-agent backups will be available next week, including Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Jimmy Garoppolo, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, and Sam Howell. The team's ultimate decision at quarterback will offer insights into their assessment of Michael Penix Jr.'s potential future with the organization.