Before Thursday night’s preseason game, Raiders quarterback Geno Smith was involved in a tense exchange with a Seahawks fan. The incident occurred when Smith responded to a provocative sign by flipping off the fan. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, who had a clear view of the situation, even attempted to grab the sign from the fan’s hands during the encounter.
The sign in question read: “Bigger Bust Geno or Jamarcus Russell?” The jab compared Smith to former Raiders quarterback Jamarcus Russell, widely regarded as one of the biggest draft busts in NFL history. The pointed message clearly struck a nerve with Smith, prompting his obscene gesture before the game began.
Pete Carroll (NFL)Carroll Stands by Geno Smith After Provocative Fan Sign Sparks Sideline Controversy
When asked about the incident on Sunday, Carroll openly defended his quarterback. He dismissed the criticism, rhetorically asking reporters, “Did you see what the sign said?” before moving on without further comment. His response suggested he felt the fan’s provocation justified Smith’s reaction, at least to some extent.
Jamarcus Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in 2007, started just 25 games over three disappointing seasons before leaving the NFL. Geno Smith, a second-round pick in 2013, initially started two seasons for the Jets but spent seven years as a backup before becoming Seattle’s starter in place of Russell Wilson. Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby also flipped off the same fan, and both Smith and Crosby are reportedly facing league fines for their actions.
