With Klint Kubiak at the helm, the Raiders aim to capitalize on a revamped roster, including fresh talents and strategic veteran inclusions.
The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for the 2026 season with a new coaching direction and an eye on rejuvenating their roster. After a challenging 2025 campaign that ended with a 3-14 record—the team's worst—they now hold the No. 1 overall pick for the draft and have welcomed Klint Kubiak as their head coach.
Quarterback Transition and Development
The Raiders' decision to select Fernando Mendoza as the first overall pick reflects their long-term vision for a franchise quarterback. Despite his standout final year at Indiana, where he recorded an impressive 91.6 PFF passing grade and led his team to a national championship, the Raiders' immediate plans don’t necessitate rushing him onto the field. With veteran Kirk Cousins joining the team, the plan is to provide Mendoza with the time needed to develop his skills without the pressures of immediate performance. Cousins had a mixed season in Atlanta but proved his capabilities with a 75.0 PFF passing grade upon reclaiming the starting role.
Bolstering the Offensive Line
To enhance their offense further, the Raiders have made a notable investment in the offensive line by acquiring center Tyler Linderbaum, whose contract makes him the highest-paid player at his position. Linderbaum has consistently earned solid PFF grades throughout his career—focusing particularly on his top-tier performance as a run blocker. In contrast, his pass protection could benefit from improvement, having ranked 21st among centers last season. This addition is expected to elevate the offensive capabilities of running back Ashton Jeanty, who is poised for a breakout in his second year. Jeanty showed promise as a rookie, recording 975 rushing yards, including 815 yards after contact.
2026 Draft Highlight: Young Talents
Mendoza is not the only fresh face from this year’s draft. Treydan Stukes, a cornerback from Tennessee, joins the mix after being a highly touted prospect who fell due to medical concerns but previously showcased strong performance metrics, earning an 89.6 PFF coverage grade in 2024. The Raiders’ draft strategy reflects a commitment to revitalizing their defense alongside offensive improvements, addressing key needs with promising young talent.
Concerns and Areas for Improvement
Despite the positive adjustments, challenges remain. The receiving corps lacks depth, with none of the returning wide receivers—who received significant targets—averaging more than 1.20 yards per route run last season. The acquisition of Jalen Nailor, though ultimately beneficial for depth, did not add an impactful presence to the position, as he averaged only 1.06 yards per route run in his previous season. Exposing receiver potential through 2025 second-round pick Jack Bech, who demonstrated flashes of capability during his rookie year, remains a hope for improvement.
Key Defensive Adjustments
On the defensive front, the return of Maxx Crosby should provide much-needed stability and leadership. Although Crosby's performance dipped below previous stellar ratings, he continues to be an essential element of their defense—balancing pass-rushing and run-stopping skills, earning notable grades in both categories over the years. The squad anticipates improvements from Crosby, alongside other standout defensive players, as they set their sights on a more complex offensive challenge this season.
Roster Battles to Watch
As training camp approaches, the competition for starting positions, particularly in the defensive backfield, will be a focal point. The introduction of Stukes will create ripples in the secondary, where he may vie for critical openings, especially if a free safety position struggles to perform. Isaiah Pola-Mao's earlier performance ranks poorly among peers, signalling a prime opportunity for fresh talent to solidify itself in a vital role.
Outlook for the 2026 Season
With a clear commitment to gradual improvement and a multi-faceted strategic approach, the Raiders aim to not just escape the previous season's despair but to set the groundwork for a competitive future. Kubiak's establishment of a balanced roster—with blend of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters—could very well reshape the team's identity in the coming season.
As the Raiders set forth into 2026, it’s clear the organization is betting on potential, patience, and strategic growth to return to prominence in the NFL.
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