The Las Vegas Raiders officially processed a pair of trades Wednesday, sending quarterback Geno Smith to the New York Jets and acquiring cornerback Taron Johnson from the Buffalo Bills, as the NFL’s new league year began at 1 p.m.
The moves came a day after the Baltimore Ravens backed out of a massive trade with the Raiders, sparking speculation about whether other agreements might fall through. But the Smith and Johnson deals proceeded without issue.
Smith, the Raiders’ former starter, was dealt to the Jets in a pick swap. Johnson arrives from Buffalo in another pick swap. Both transactions were processed routinely, according to the team.
Kicker Matt Gay, who was released in December and not on a roster to end the season, officially signed with the Raiders early Wednesday. Edge defender Malcolm Koonce also signed early because he was already on the roster.
Linebacker Nakobe Dean, who spent his first four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, officially signed his contract with the Raiders late Wednesday. He was the only outside free agent to sign by day’s end, with several more expected in the building Thursday.
Two former Raiders agreed to terms with other teams Wednesday. Guard Dylan Parham, who made 63 starts in four seasons with Las Vegas, agreed to a two-year deal worth up to $20 million with the Jets. Defensive back Lonnie Johnson Jr., after one year with the Raiders, plans to sign with the Miami Dolphins.
