March 6, 2026, 4:14 p.m. PT

Geno Smith is out. As was expected since way back when he told the Raiders fans how he felt about them during his one season in Las Vegas. At best if he were retained by the Raiders, he would have been an insurance policy in case expected top pick Fernando Mendoza was ready to start. That, however, was optimistic to the point of unrealistic.

Geno’s presence would have not been a positive thing for the rookie or the organization. The only option was to get rid of him.

Raiders GM John Spytek said in his Scouting Combine interview that ideally he’d prefer not to start a rookie QB right away. Which would suggest he would like to have a veteran on the roster. The options out there aren’t endless. But there are a few who could make sense.

1. Kirk CousinsJan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) passes the ball against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The perfect choice in a perfect world. He is still talented enough to start and did so eight times last season in Atlanta, throwing ten touchdowns to five interceptions.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.2. Joe FlaccoCincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco (16) passes the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Nov. 16, 2025.

The ageless wonder started ten games last season throwing 15 touchdowns at 41. If he still wants to play, you couldn’t ask for a better coach in the QB room than him. Hell, he’s older than many actual QB coaches.

3. Marcus MariotaLANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Washington Commanders rushes the ball against Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders in the fourth quarter at Northwest Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

A return to Las Vegas would be welcome for Mariota. And he would have a better chance of starting this time around than last time when Derek Carr was terrified of letting go of the reins and even made excuses when Mariota came in and played well. He had his moments last season replacing Jayden Daniels for eight games, but overall is not a great option. Hence why he is at best a backup of temporary option.

4. Brandon AllenTennessee Titans quarterback Brandon Allen (10) throws the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Titans 41-7, capturing the AFC South title. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]

Allen’s inclusion makes sense here due to his having been with the Titans last season along with new Raiders assistant head coach Mike McCoy and pass game coordinator Nick Holz. Allen’s ability to translate things from McCoy and Holz to the field could be helpful for Mendoza.