The Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback, Geno Smith, exited the Week 10 primetime game against the Denver Broncos with a thigh bruise but later returned to the field. Smith's first season with the Raiders has had its challenges, yet he has been pushing to improve the team's performance in recent weeks.
In Week 9, Smith led the Raiders in a close overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, throwing three touchdowns to tight end Brock Bowers. His improved play has made Las Vegas a more competitive team.
During the Thursday Night Football matchup against Denver, Smith was nearing 100 passing yards in a defensive struggle. In the fourth quarter, with the Broncos leading 10-7, Smith was tackled by Denver's Nik Bonitto after scrambling on a first down to start a drive. He stayed on the ground briefly after a subsequent hit by another defender before walking to the sideline limping and clearly in pain.
"Smith remained on the ground in some pain after being tackled, then went to the blue medical tent. He returned to the game, but was in noticeable pain and limping around."
Backup quarterback Kenny Pickett took over briefly during Smith's sideline evaluation.
The Raiders ultimately lost the game 10-7 to the Broncos.
Despite suffering a painful thigh bruise, Geno Smith showed resilience by returning to the game, though the Raiders fell short in their narrow Week 10 loss to Denver.