Geno Smith's Gesture Sparks Controversy After Raiders' Loss
After a disheartening 24-10 defeat to the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith made headlines for a less-than-gracious exit from the field. As he jogged off at Allegiant Stadium, video footage captured him appearing to give the finger to disgruntled fans.
The incident drew immediate attention, prompting the Raiders to issue a statement later that evening. “The Raiders are aware of an obscene gesture made by Geno Smith towards fans following Sunday’s game at Allegiant Stadium,” the statement read. “We are disappointed in his actions and have discussed the incident with Geno. We hold the Raider Nation in the highest regard and take this matter seriously.”
Smith's performance on the field was equally troubling; he was sacked ten times during the game. While he did not directly address the gesture in his postgame comments, he took full responsibility for the team's fifth consecutive loss. “It’s on me,” he stated. “I’ve got to make better plays and find a way.”
The Raiders' struggles extend beyond Smith's performance. In a significant move, the team fired first-year offensive coordinator Chip Kelly shortly after the game, with six regular-season games remaining. Head coach Pete Carroll confirmed the decision, expressing gratitude for Kelly’s contributions. “I spoke with Chip Kelly earlier this evening and informed him of his release as offensive coordinator of the Raiders,” Carroll said. “I would like to thank Chip for his service and wish him all the best in the future.”
In a conversation with NFL reporter Jay Glazer, Kelly reflected positively on his time with the team, specifically mentioning Smith. “I really loved those players. I’m a huge, huge Geno Smith fan,” he remarked. “That was one of the best parts of this experience for me, working with Geno and those guys every day. But hey, we got to win. I get it.”
Despite their 2-9 record, Carroll noted that team morale remains intact. “They ain’t giving up on each other. I’m not giving up on them, and they’re not giving up on me, I hope,” he said, emphasizing a sense of unity within the locker room.
Raiders tight end Brock Bowers echoed Carroll’s sentiments, stating, “No one here is B.S.ing and stuff. Everyone wants to win so bad, and it’s just not coming together on game day.”
Smith's gesture may lead to disciplinary action from the NFL, which has a history of penalizing players for similar conduct. In October, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones faced a $250,000 fine for flipping off fans. While Smith's potential fine is unlikely to reach that amount, the league is known for its strict stance on maintaining a positive image.
Additionally, Smith's incident may not be isolated; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was also seen appearing to flip off ESPN cameras before his game against the Chicago Bears, raising questions about player conduct in high-pressure situations.
