Geno Smith, the quarterback for the Raiders, faced a quad contusion early in the fourth quarter during Las Vegas’ ‘Thursday Night Football’ matchup against the AFC West rival Broncos, as confirmed by Coach Pete Carroll. Despite the injury, he re-entered the game but showed signs of being hindered.

Attempting a run, Smith was tripped by Nik Bonitto leading to a short gain. Subsequently, Malcolm Roach landed on him, causing Smith to go down again after briefly getting up. He left the field with care yet returned shortly after missing just two plays.

“He wanted to go back in in the worst way,” Carroll noted. “He wanted to complete the game for his teammates. He got hit in the quad, suffering a bruise or impact. That’s him showing determination.”

Smith expressed he felt “in a lot of pain” but aimed to push through the discomfort. “That’s just part of who I am. I feel it’s my duty to be out there for my teammates and assist in getting a win. I thought I could endure it, and that’s what I attempted to do.”

During the two snaps he missed, Kenny Pickett substituted in. Near the game’s conclusion, Smith was marked as questionable. However, the Raiders’ offense did not get back on the field afterward, and he was seen using a heating pad on his injured leg. Carroll clarified that Smith would not have returned had the Raiders regained possession.

This season has been challenging for the 35-year-old Smith, who joined Las Vegas this offseason via trade and reunited with Carroll, his ex-coach from the Seahawks. He has recorded 12 interceptions — the highest in the NFL — versus 11 touchdowns, resulting in the Raiders holding a 2-7 record.

Smith concluded with statistics of 16 completions on 26 attempts, amassing 143 yards, with one interception and facing six sacks.

The Raiders will enjoy a short rest before their week 11 encounter, which will be ‘Monday Night Football’ against the Cowboys.