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Kenny Pickett Takes QB Reins for Raiders vs. Eagles

12/13/2025

45 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kenny Pickett will start at quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Geno Smith is sidelined due to shoulder and back injuries.
Pete Carroll said Smith's condition is day-to-day, with focus on his lower back.
Pickett previously backed up Jalen Hurts on the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team, produced in relief last week, and was traded from the Cleveland Browns.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's quarterback landscape has shifted significantly over the years, highlighted by Jimmy Garoppolo's 2017 trade to the San Francisco 49ers for a second-round pick. In 2022, Kenny Pickett, a backup to Jalen Hurts, stepped in for the injured Geno Smith, reflecting the increasing reliance on backup quarterbacks due to injuries and performance issues, which has become a critical factor in team strategies and playoff outcomes.

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Story summary

Kenny Pickett will start at quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Geno Smith is sidelined due to shoulder and back injuries.
Pete Carroll said Smith's condition is day-to-day, with focus on his lower back.
Pickett previously backed up Jalen Hurts on the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team, produced in relief last week, and was traded from the Cleveland Browns.

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