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Brock Bowers will not sign a contract extension with the Las Vegas Raiders this year. He can’t. NFL rules say so.

For the Raiders to future-proof their franchise, they will have to wait until after the 2026 season. Until then, the price tag won’t look like it does today. And that can be a problem. or is it?

There are three tight ends sitting ahead of Brock Bowers in line for new deals. Those players are about to have new deals and when the riders are ready to extend or give their studs a new deal it could make a huge difference in a tight market.

Sam LaPorta in Detroit, Tucker Craft in Green Bay, and Kyle Pitts in Atlanta are set to reset a resurgent tight end market in the NFL. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported earlier this month, based on conversations with league officials, that Laporta and Krafth are both in a position to increase their salaries to above $19 million per season. Pitts will hit the open market next offseason and could make an absolute splash if he reaches free agency.

That’s the part that should concern general manager Jon Spytek.

Brock Bowers in a league of his own?

The 23-year-old Bowers is still playing on a four-year, $18.1 million rookie contract signed through 2024. Spotrac lists his average annual value at approximately $4.5 million, which ranks him 32nd among NFL tight ends. He set rookie records with 112 catches and 1,194 receiving yards at age 21, and was named All-Pro and Pro Bowl in his first two seasons.

The current top of the tight end market is San Francisco’s George Kittle at $19.1 million per year, while Arizona’s Trey McBride is essentially flat at $19 million as well. Apart from those two, the situation deteriorates rapidly. It’s that difference that makes Laporta, Craft and Pitts set the standard for Bowers and Spytek.

Bowers may end up in a different conversation entirely.

NFL.com senior researcher Anthony Holzman-Escareno argued last year that Bowers’ next contract would be benchmarked against specific wide receivers, not tight ends. The top 10 wideouts in the league average $32 million per season. Ja’Marr Chase reset that market at $40.3 million per year last season in Cincinnati. Of course, Bowers won’t be getting Chase’s money, but the floor for his extension continues to grow.

Their use is proof that he is moving in that direction. After trading away Davante Adams in 2024 and Jakobi Meyers in 2025, the Raiders failed to add a proven veteran wide receiver in either of the following two offseasons. Bowers became the offense’s top option by default. New head coach Clint Kubiak, who spent last season leading the offense in Seattle, is expected to be relied upon even more.

Connected: Michael Meyer has never had a real QB with the Las Vegas Raiders, but that will change in 2026

Raiders continue to rely on Bowers as key to offense

Brock Bowers missed five games due to a PCL injury in the first week of the 2025 season and returned in Week 9 against Jacksonville, catching 12 passes for 123 yards and three touchdowns, then played in 11 more games before going on injured reserve in late December. The final line: 64 receptions, 680 yards, seven scores. Pro Bowl number two was locked in and his value to the franchise was cemented.

There’s no doubt that GM Jon Spytek will spend to keep his guys. The second-year general manager signed defensive end Max Crosby to a three-year, $106.5 million extension through 2025, the richest non-quarterback contract in franchise history. They gave Meyers wide receiver money last summer and traded him in return. The pattern is becoming clear: pay the homegrown stars, and don’t move the rest.

Cap space is not the issue here. Over the Cap projects the Raiders will make $207.5 million in 2028, 13th-most in the league. This covers the first year of any Bowers deal with plenty of room left.

The point is the order in which things happen.

Every tight end who signs before Bowers raises his ceiling and costs Spytek and the Raiders. In Detroit, Laporta will likely end up this summer. Could be in craft training camp. Pitts is expected to hit the open market next spring. Each of those numbers becomes the new comp and will set the standard for how much Bowers will cost the Raiders. By the time the spytech picks up the phone, the negotiations and costs will have escalated.

Bowers gets a base salary of $1.07 million and a roster bonus of $1.36 million in 2026, just under the cap hit of $4.95 million.

Las Vegas opens the season on September 13 against Miami at Allegiant Stadium.

Connected: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 schedule: Zero primetime games, toughest road stretch in years

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Rob Parker thinks Fernando Mendoza is going to be ruined.

The child has not taken a single picture. Not a single representative training camp has been conducted. Haven’t thrown a pass that matters since the national title game. And we have to file the judgment in May.

What is the proof of that? The NFL left the Raiders on the primetime slate. This is the whole logic. Apparently, the people who plug the games into the time slot in the league office have better information about Mendoza than Jon Spytek. These are the same brilliant minds who come to Jacksonville every Thursday night and tell us it’s time to watch.

Fox Sports’ Rob Parker’s “Hot Take” Is Simply Ignorant

I pulled the clip a second time because I wanted to make sure I held it correctly. I did it. Fox Sports Radio. Thursday. Mendoza’s busted, don’t bother looking, Brady ruined the franchise. All this cooked in May.

First let me explain the obvious part. The Raiders won three games last year. Three. Whenever the league gave him a primetime window in 2025, he was unwatchable. Why on earth would Park Avenue hand them another Sunday night from a rookie quarterback’s college tape? They won’t do that. He didn’t. Lincoln Kennedy said the same thing on the Raiders squad show and Kennedy played here, which means his read on this makes about a hundred times more sense to me than Parker’s. You earn primetime. This roaster hasn’t earned dishwater from Andy Reid’s plate.

He’s not on Mendoza. This is the situation he went into.

The piece that really gets under my skin is the valuation. Or what is missing.

41 Touchdowns. 3,535 yards. Heisman Trophy. Natty. In Indiana. I said Indiana. Spytech will not even take trade calls on picks. Not “took them and passed them.” Did not pick up the phone. I’ve covered enough drafts to tell you when a GM is doing due diligence and when he’s already made a decision. This is decided.

Criticism of Fernando Mendoza from “anonymous sources”

Now, the anonymous ACC coach who spoke told ESPN that Mendoza doesn’t have NFL traits. Sure, whatever. Ever since I was secretly drinking beer in college, anonymous coaches have been misunderstanding quarterbacks. They missed Brees. Brady missed. Mahomes missed by a country mile. The track record of sinking anonymous scouts on top picks is, to put it mercifully, poor. And now we’re supposed to believe one of these guys as scripture because this quote fits the premise that Parker was already cooking in the chamber? No. I am well.

Kirk Morrison has been in the league for a long time. Morrison said Mendoza is the hardest worker he has seen in his years in college. Morrison’s name is on it. The other boy was not with him. Pick one for the ride.

Parker’s Tom Brady performance as Raiders owner is also ridiculous

Then we get to Brady and this is actually where Parker offers his hand to me.

Brady ruined the Raiders. That’s his line. The attacker. Hugh Jackson. Dennis Allen. Del Rio. Give Gruden a run. McDaniels shot himself on the side of the road. Antonio Pierce. Pete Carroll for a year. The franchise that nuked itself every 20 months for 15 consecutive years. Brady reportedly ruined it.

Get out of here with him.

I will come equal to you. I’m not the guy who’s going to die defending Brady’s minority stake. The questions of how practical a part-owner should be are real, and the people I trust on this beat are asking them every week. We can do that column some other day. But the version of history where Brady torches a thriving operation? You have to forget that the last decade and a half of Raiders football even existed.

Brady was in Spytek’s room. In Kubiak’s room. In the room when the front office ultimately chose the quarterback they wanted, not the quarterback they got. He is not wasting anything. It’s someone who is finally aiming the gun in a direction that makes sense.

Raiders hot takes are just for clicks and attention

And here’s the thing about what Parker is doing. He is not analyzing the team. He is making a clip. He knows the word Raiders prints engagement. He pressed the button. The button worked. I’m at my desk on a Sunday at 9pm writing about him, so well, he won the day.

This does not mean that he is right.

Honestly a read on the 2026 Raiders is more boring than a viral clip. The spine is in reconstruction for the first time in forever. Spytech has done more in four months than in the four years of the last three regimes. Kubiak’s scheme needs to fit the bodies on the roster. A quarterback may be good, may be great, may spend a year on the bench and clipboard. I’m optimistic, but I’m not booking flights to Los Angeles. Cousins ​​are still cousins. The O-line is still a project. There is still a question mark on the receiver room. All of this is true at the same time.

But you don’t drop the word bust on the No. 1 pick in May because the TV schedule didn’t break out the way you wanted.

The kid hasn’t played a single snap.

Look at something. Then come find me.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

The Las Vegas Raiders made a quiet but important move before free agency opens this spring. They traded Taron Johnson, one of the best slot cornerbacks in football, to plug the hole that has plagued this defense for three years.

And now, no one can find him.

Not in the team’s offseason photo dump, nor in the background of any workout shots at the Intermountain Health Performance Center. Johnson was not included in the welcome graphics released by the Raiders for every other offseason addition. Not on his own social media, where his X bio still claims he plays for the Buffalo Bills. The Raiders have entered deep into the second phase of the offseason program and the Silver and Black’s most experienced defensive back acquisition has become a ghost.

This is a problem worth talking about.

Terron Johnson’s absence has been noticed

Just Blog Baby was the first to flag it, detailing the evidence and noting what the Raiders did and didn’t do publicly. Every other player received a warm welcome from the team on social media this offseason. Tyler Linderbaum. Quay Walker. Nakobe Dean. Drink candy. Jalen Naylor. Even linebacker Cameron McGrone, who just signed this week, got the standard graphic.

Johnson got nothing. From the team or yourself.

Here’s some context on what’s at stake. Johnson is a six-year veteran with 79 starts in Buffalo. He is a former second-team All-Pro who anchored a Bills secondary that played in three AFC Championships. The Raiders gave up real draft capital to get him. And the way Rob Leonard’s defense is structured, the slot corner is one of the most important pieces on the field, as the AFC West throws receivers to that area on every other snap. Kansas City does it. Chargers do this. Denver does it.

If Johnson isn’t here, the entire back end of this defense becomes tough.

Connected: ‘No excuses’: Clint Kubiak issues clear warning to Raiders coaches and front office

Is it really time to panic over Johnson’s no-show?

Now the proper counterargument.

Voluntary means voluntary. Too many veterans skip the steps of offseason programs. Johnson is not yet under contractual obligation to remain in the building. He follows the Raiders’ running backs Max Crosby and Jeremy Chinn on Instagram, which at least suggests he hasn’t checked out mentally. He hasn’t posted on X since 2021, so the thing in the bio is probably just an omission, not a statement.

But the math still doesn’t add up.

Clint Kubiak said this week that with OTA reps becoming more limited than ever before, you have to be intentional about your timing. Translation from coach-speak into plain English: Every rep counts and players who aren’t there are falling behind. The Raiders don’t have the luxury of having a starting-caliber slot corner show up late and play catch-up against Patrick Mahomes in Week 1.

Johnson is completely new to this scheme. He has never played a snap in a Rob Leonard defense. He has never played with Jeremy Chinn, rookie Traydon Stukes or Jarmod McCoy. The entire secondary needs to learn how to play together and the most experienced part of it has been invisible since April.

Phase two is underway. The rest of the team members are working in the building. If Johnson comes out before mandatory minicamp, the story dies a quiet death and no one outside Raider Nation ever thinks about it again.

If he doesn’t do this, the attackers will be in a real problem.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Clint Kubiak has been the Raiders head coach for approximately three months. He has already told his front office that the time for explanations is over.

“I’m very familiar with the resources and facilities the Raiders have,” Kubiak told Raiders.com. “I was practicing here when I was with the 49ers, playing at Allegiant. It’s as good as it gets.” “So as coaches and administrators we have no excuse for not going out and getting great players and getting them to perform at their best.”

This is the kind of quote that travels. It also sets the tone for what analysts are predicting when the OTAs come out.

Other insiders are excited about Raiders 2026

The Athletic’s Sam Warren made a post-draft case for cautious optimism, pointing to the under-the-radar work done following the Mendoza selection.

“There was always going to be something to be excited about in this draft class because of Fernando Mendoza,” Warren wrote. “But what the Raiders did on days two and three should also be cause for optimism. Las Vegas addressed its lack of defensive backs in a big way, drafting four of them, all of whom are known for their ball skills,” Warren wrote.

The quarterback room is where most national pundits are descending on this week. He is of great interest in the position battle for Clint Kubiak’s Raiders.

CBS Sports analyst Nate Burleson, seen in the Sports Illustrated video, did not say anything about the QB1 conversation. “I think Kirk is going to miss that opportunity. Mendoza is just not going to be able to beat Kirk Cousins. Kirk is still a veteran quarterback, and if you look at the money they paid him, he’s going to play quarterback there,” Burleson said.

Kubiak isn’t holding back on QB framing

Clint Kubiak places no emphasis on the framing created by Burelson. It has made it more complicated.

Kubiak said, “Between Kirk, Aiden and Fernando, they’re three really outstanding players. We’re going to coach our own team, but no matter what they do they always bring out the best in each other.” “So, when it’s a competitive room, it’s a good thing,”

The phrase competitive room keeps coming up again and again. So, what does the phrase “there’s still a long way to go” mean?

Owner Mark Davis opened another door this week by saying, “Fernando Mendoza potentially coming in as the starting QB is very exciting,” Davis said, contradicting the soft consensus that Cousins ​​has locked down the job.

read between the lines. Cousins ​​arrived knowing the offense, having played three seasons under Kubiak at Minnesota. Mendoza comes in as the No. 1 overall pick, the reigning Heisman winner, and by his own admission, is still learning to take a snap from under center.

Nothing is certain about that. Kubiak likes it that way.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Thursday afternoon, 4:30 PM Pacific, the Las Vegas Raiders find out who they’re playing and when. The league office has already spoiled the suspense on the degree of difficulty.

It is a cruel word.

Why is the Raiders schedule not doing their rebuild any favors?

According to the NFL’s own math, only six teams fared worse. The Raiders’ opponents scored a combined .529 last season, putting them at the seventh-toughest strength of schedule in the league for 2026. Nine of those opponents played in January. The AFC West gives you Kansas City, Denver and the Chargers twice each, and that’s before the calendar ends with Buffalo, New England, the Rams, Seattle and San Francisco thrown in for good measure.

No one in the national media is hiding what they think will happen next.

Just Blog Baby came out this week with an article arguing that anyone expecting the Silver and Black to crash the playoff party in 2026 will be heartbroken. The site acknowledged that the offseason raised the floor, then quickly pointed out that a high floor doesn’t mean much when the ceiling is Patrick Mahomes’s twice a year.

Warren Sharp’s take on Sharp Football Analysis went down a different path altogether. They abandoned the traditional method of using the previous year’s record and instead built their rankings around Vegas win totals, which factors in roster changes between February and now. Sharp’s model has the Raiders projected at 5.5-wins, meaning bookmakers see an upgrade but no contenders just yet.

RELATED: Raiders rookie minicamp 2026: Fernando Mendoza already looks like a boy

Choose a methodology, choose your pain.

The AFC West is what should keep Raider fans up at night. Las Vegas has not seen a playoff game since the 2021 Wild Card weekend in Cincinnati. Kansas City had a disappointing year and the Chiefs don’t last long, everyone in football knows that by now. Denver won the division outright. The Chargers also moved into the bracket. Six divisional games, each one of them against a team that had played meaningful football on New Year’s Day.

The home slate doesn’t get any easier when you leave the division. Allegiant Stadium will host Buffalo, the Rams and Seattle in addition to the AFC West Gauntlet, which includes six of eight home games against teams expected to finish above .500.

Clint Kubiak is promoting without excuses, and that’s admirable, but the schedule doesn’t care about the messaging. Tyler Linderbaum is real. It’s realistic to buy out Fernando Mendoza for a year for Kirk Cousins ​​to learn. The four defensive backs drafted by the front office are real and they’re probably going to play. All of those things could be true and Las Vegas could still come out of this thing 6-11 depending on who is on the other side most weeks.

The national media have decided that the playoffs are business for 2027. The program begins on Thursday and we find out if there is any reasonable argument to the contrary.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1…More about Scott Gulbransen

Most would agree that the Las Vegas Raiders have done a good job of rebuilding immediately and building a much stronger supporting cast for Kirk Cousins ​​and Fernando Mendoza than they did with Geno Smith last year.

While the offensive line has improved, questions remain at the pass-catcher position. Have the Raiders provided their new-look QB room with enough weapons?

Sports IllustratedEva Geitheim doesn’t think so, but she has a possible solution in mind. He believes the Raiders should try to sign free agent receiver Deebo Samuel.

Samuel, a one-time All-Pro receiver, is still only 30 years old. While Samuel only recorded 727 receiving yards last season, that’s 31 more than any Raiders player in 2025.

He may not fit the profile of a No. 1 receiver, but there’s no doubt that Samuel could help provide a spark for the Raiders as a complement to Brock Bowers. The question is whether there is mutual interest in it.

Although Samuel has not been linked to another team, it is possible he would welcome the opportunity the Raiders could provide. The Raiders signed Jalen Naylor to a three-year, $35 million contract this offseason and expect him to be one of their premier pass-catchers. He will compete for targets with 2025 second-round pick Jack Beech, 2025 fourth-round pick Donte Thornton and Trey Tucker.

The Raiders may prefer to roll the dice on a young man they are developing into reliable playmakers. If that’s the case, they probably wouldn’t call up a veteran like Samuel. Still, if Las Vegas goes into camp and realizes their prospects aren’t quite ready for primetime, Samuel could be just what the Raiders need.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB rankings: From the NFL’s worst starting QBs to the best

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

Raider Nation is angry again as an unnamed ACC coach told ESPN this week that Fernando Mendoza doesn’t have “NFL qualities.” His receivers made him look much better than that. The back-shoulder thing won’t work in the league. Those throws get picked up in the NFL.

Before you get all upset and take it to the “national media” and take aim at the Raiders again, step back and think a little differently. This time, the media is doing the Raiders, Fernando Mendoza, and their fan base a favor.

Mendoza Criticizes 2025 Nothing Like Shedure Sanders Takedown

Read the anonymous quote a few times. Now ask yourself if this sounds familiar.

Necessary. Almost a year ago, anonymous sources spent the better part of three weeks publicly dismantling Shedure Sanders. Both situations are being framed as parallel cases of pre-draft and post-draft doubt. They are not the same. They’re not even close.

Watching the coverage of Shedure Sanders last season, it was a completely different animal. That effort, fairly or unfairly, was a constant drain on Sanders’ draft stock. Tom Pelissero reported that a longtime NFL assistant coach gave Sanders the worst formal interview of his career, said he behaved appropriately, and said he took unnecessary sacks, among other things. An AFC executive said that Sanders wanted to command the room. An NFC scouting director warned of culture shock upon hitting the real locker room. One scout told Athlon Sports he mailed it every step of the process. A former NFL evaluator went on record with a 26-game film study and an unattainable grade.

Sanders then fell to take 144. Which retroactively validated every anonymous shot taken at him.

This is what a real eviction looks like. multiple sources. Multiple angles. The football, the character, the preparation, the medicals, the whole circus. The criticism was of the story.

Criticism of Fernando Mendoza is an outlier

During the draft process, some people were skeptical of Fernando Mendoza and his ability to translate what he did at Indiana in 2025 to the next level. Don Orlowski’s criticism and critique was perhaps the most publicized example of this type.

This time, ESPN reports, only one coach took aim at Mendoza. a coach. A coach who last saw Mendoza at Cal in 2024, before his signature year and his incredible run to the College Football National Championship. This coach saw him First 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in 2025. They saw him before he became the runaway Heisman Trophy winner. Before he became that guy, four other coaches told the same ESPN reporter that he was either “one of the more complete quarterback prospects” they had seen or someone who “grows up” in those moments that you can’t teach.

Please read the coverage of the ACC coach’s quote and see how it is handled. Bleacher Report ran it ahead of the Big Ten coaches’ praise. Clutch Points called the criticism “a bit unfair”. Hoosier State of Mind kept the word “somehow” in the title. Just Blog Baby went with “completely ridiculous and not supported by its peers”. Comeback speculated that Kirk Cousins ​​might have “some credibility” before heading to the safety net.

No one is treating this as a Sanders moment. Outlets are running the quote so they can include it in the same article.

RELATED: Raiders rookie minicamp 2026: Fernando Mendoza already looks like a boy

Mendoza consensus is much more positive

That’s why the national media, coaches, former players and evaluators talk more positively than negatively about the Raiders’ new franchise quarterback. The wealth of evidence is there. If Fernando Mendoza had serious question marks like Sanders, you’d be hearing it everywhere, but he doesn’t. Mendoza was first in FBS in EPA per dropback last season, second in EPA per dropback on third and fourth downs. Ranked fourth in EPA when tied or trailing in the fourth quarter. He is just a clutch player and the visual evidence is overwhelming.

Mendoza played hurt against Ohio State, came back and won the Big Ten title. He scored the game-winning touchdown in the national championship game. ESPN’s draft scouting report, written by a former college quarterback, identified pocket movement as his real weakness. No back-shoulder throw.

This coward of an ACC coach, who last saw Mendoza at Cal, has some kind of ax to grind. This is clear. He is criticizing a player who no longer exists. 2025 Mendoza completed passes at a different clip, threw to a different level of receivers, ran a different offense, and was asked to do different things. Treating those two players as the same prospect is the analytical equivalent of evaluating a stock based on last year’s performance.

On the bus: #attacker First-round quarterback Fernando Mendoza is training and throwing to Ohio State superstar WR Jeremiah Smith.

They are both Miami natives and potentially top-2 #nfl Draft picks back-to-back.

Future teammates in Las Vegas.

👀 pic.twitter.com/KDQ1a0Am2t

– mlfootball (@mlfootball) 7 May 2026

That doesn’t mean Mendoza is bulletproof or has proven himself in the NFL yet. In fact, he said as much at last week’s rookie minicamp. He knows he has to earn respect and admiration in the NFL by being the best quarterback he can be. Given his conduct, intelligence and track record, how can you doubt him?

As I’ve said before in this area, the Raiders need to develop a young quarterback. It remains to be seen whether this season’s impressive offseason moves and draft performance mean the organization is finally on the right track. The Raiders have unfortunately underperformed with talented players in the past. Inheriting the league’s worst offense by 2025 has a rookie quarterback to do the job, no matter what the consensus board said in April. But framing matters here. An opponent’s old decision is not a referendum.

Sanders had institutional doubts. Mendoza is a man with a chip on his shoulder.

If anything, this ACC coach trying to start a fire proved just how little fuel is needed.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Here’s a version of the Raiders’ rookie minicamp recap that focuses on snap counts, drill reps and what it looks like to see the No. 1 overall pick throw a five-yarder out. That story is two days old and not particularly interesting.

It’s better here.

Friday night, after the end of the first day at the Intermountain Health Performance Center, Fernando Mendoza pulled the rookie offensive lineman into a hotel room and asked him to turn in photos. Not for show. Not for the camera. Mendoza played nearly every snap of his college career out of the shotgun at Indiana and getting comfortable under center is the most obvious technical hurdle standing between him and the Week 1 start. So he went and worked on it. on Friday night. After his first NFL practice.

This is the lead. Really, that’s the whole story.

also worth your attention: : The Heisman winner, who was about to sign a million-dollar contract, went to rookie camp and decided that he was, in his own words, “at the bottom of the totem pole.”

“In the rookie camp, everyone is trying to do well. It’s essentially a tryout for all the rookies, including me,” Mendoza said after the second day.

You don’t have to say that. You’re the No. 1 overall pick. The work is yours. But that’s what Clint Kubiak and Jon Spytek thought they were drafting, and over the course of one weekend, they got it right.

The Raiders locker room has already been purchased

You can tell what a rookie class thinks about a quarterback by listening to what other people say. This weekend three different teammates used similar language to describe Mendoza without prompting.

Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M’s third-round guard and quietly one of the draft’s steals, called him “a man’s man.”

“He gets along with everybody. He’s very friendly, he’s easy to talk to,” Zuhn said. “He is a great leader and I am happy to work with him.”

Treydan Stookes, a sophomore guard whose locker is next to Mendoza’s, called him a “super funny guy” and said he likes the way Mendoza attacks his work.

And then there’s Kieron Crawford, the Day 2 defensive end pick. Crawford told a story this weekend that you can’t script. After the Raiders called his name, his agent immediately called Mendoza. Not the head coach. Not GM. Quarterback. Just to check in.

“Once my name was called, I said, ‘You know what, I plan on being with a lot of good people,'” Crawford said with a smile.

That tells you something about Mendoza’s reputation around the league before he took an NFL snap. And that tells you something about what kind of person the Raiders have hired to be the face of the franchise.

harmony beyond the building for mendoza

Newbies aren’t just turning out at 5pm and going their separate ways. Mendoza and Zuhn both mentioned that offensive players are continuing playbook walkthroughs in the team hotel after practice. The Friday night under-centre session was clearly the beginning.

“There are times when we’re just sitting in the hot tub, in the cold tub just messing around,” Zuhn said. “But when it’s work time, it’s work time and everyone knows it.”

It’s the right balance for a beginner. Free enough to like each other. Serious enough to study together in the hotel.

Now comes the hard part for Mendoza and the Raiders

This was always going to be the easy part. Two days, no experience, no real installation. Vol Mendoza talked about being “positively stressed” when OTAs open up later this month and he’s suddenly lumped in with Kirk Cousins, Tyler Linderbaum, Ashton Jeanty and Brock Bowers. Max Crosby and Quaye Walker will line up in front of him. The Day 2 standouts will have to do so against true NFL veterans.

But first impressions matter. And first impressions of this rookie class, especially the kid at the top, were as good as Spytek and Kubiak could have hoped for.

The franchise spent the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback, two nights into his NFL career, running his own walkthrough in a hotel room to fix his weakness.

This is the guy you wanted. Over the course of a weekend, it sure seems like this is the guy you’ve got.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Entering the NFL Draft, one of the Las Vegas Raiders’ biggest needs was at wide receiver. They selected a pass catcher – but not until the sixth round. While their draft has been praised, with good reason, the Raiders could not fill every need.

For a team that desperately needs an option for the future of quarterback Fernando Mendoza, waiting until pick No. 195 says a lot about where general manager Jon Spytek stands on the current roster. Let’s take a look at where the room stands and who could emerge as the playmaker they’ll need in 2026

Depth without a star: Breaking down the current receiver roster

The Raiders used second- and fourth-round picks on Jack Beech and Donte Thornton Jr. last year. The two combined for 30 receptions and 359 yards as rookies – not exactly eye-popping. In fact, both will feel extra pressure as they enter training camp later this summer.

Additionally, Trey Tucker led the team with 57 receptions for 696 yards and five touchdowns in 2024 — a modest stat line that is a baseline, not a ceiling, under new offensive coordinator Clint Kubiak. Tucker’s speed is advantageous, but he hasn’t done anything to establish himself as a primary receiver during his career, even in the slot.

Free agency additions filled the depth chart without solving a key problem. Jalen Naylor, who spent time with Kirk Cousins ​​at Minnesota, averaged nearly 440 receiving yards with 10 combined touchdowns over the past two seasons as the fourth receiver behind Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen and Jordan Addison. Not exactly WR1 type ability.

Derek Young, a special teams standout in Seattle, and veteran Phillip Dorsett — a Super Bowl champion who spent last season on Atlanta’s practice squad and hasn’t appeared in a regular season game in two years — round out the group. Cedric Jackson and Brandon Rice have the lowest NFL track records.

The room is versatile and well-rounded. It’s not deep with proven pass catchers.

Also Read: Las Vegas Raiders Draft Recap: Getting to know the picks including Fernando Mendoza

There is no clear No. 1 in sight for the Raiders

No one has locked down the No. 1 spot yet and this is really an opportunity. The question is who steps up and runs Kubiak’s offense through them.

The dominoes begin to fall at the training camp. Chemistry with Mendoza and Cousins, learning Kubiak’s system, creating roles — it all gets sorted out between now and September.

Bech and Tucker are the likeliest candidates to lead the group, but don’t expect them to look like they did in Chip Kelly’s attack a year ago. The scheme is different, the quarterback is different and the opportunity in front of them is bigger.

Kubiak’s offense thrives on versatility. Last season in Seattle, Smith-Njigba was the engine, lining up outside, in the slot and in the backfield and turning jet sweeps into chunk gains. He was everywhere, and defenses couldn’t stop him.

The Raiders don’t have Smith-Njigba. But Tucker plays a similar style: fast, playful and dangerous in space. This makes him the most natural fit for that role in Kubiak’s system.

Without a true No. 1 receiver on the roster, Kubiak is betting on his current group for production. The blueprint is clear: Re-create Smith-Njigba’s versatility and production, with the pieces already in the building.

Also read: Las Vegas Raiders’ 2026 draft pick ‘May never play football again’

Malik Benson brings versatility, special teams value

Malik Benson arrives in Las Vegas with legitimate production. He led Oregon with 43 catches for 716 yards and six touchdowns last season, lining up outside in the slot and turning touch passes into jet sweep gains — the exact type of versatility Kubiak is looking for.

Benson’s calling card is speed – he ran the 100-meter dash in 10.4 seconds in high school and it shows on tape. He cleanly tracks the deep ball at full speed, forces defenses to respect his vertical presence and creates separation without relying on 50/50 balls.

Oregon WR Malik Benson is the fastest player in the 2026 draft class.

With true game breaking speed, I see him being an excellent deep threat or even an All-Pro kick returner in the NFL.

Even with a 4.37 40-yard dash, he plays even faster than that, and he’s absolutely electric. pic.twitter.com/tPENgScTmz

– Cam (@42Cyc) 24 March 2026

At Oregon, his intermediate and deep route production took a significant jump, and his catch rate increased while drops nearly disappeared. He’s not a short field weapon or run blocker, but in a system that wants to push the ball downfield, he can bend coverages in ways that benefit every receiver around him.

Benson will have opportunities not only on offense, but on special teams as well. He was the Ducks’ punt returner last year. He had a breakout season as a punt returner, totaling nine returns for 161 yards, including an 85-yard punt return touchdown.

He is not coming in and taking charge. But after roster cuts, there will be four months of reps talking.

ALSO READ: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft recap: Best class in years, but the wide receiver room still needs an answer

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

The Las Vegas Raiders are set to make Fernando Mendoza the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. But they also selected nine other players and overall their draft class was extremely successful.

Of course, we won’t know the true results of the Raiders’ 2026 draft class for another year, if not longer. Still, it’s never too early to draw some early conclusions.

According to some accounts, the raiders decimated their draft class. He also got some draft steals, but those also come with question marks.

Specifically, NFL insider Tony Pauline of Essential Sports suggested that there is a “chance” that fourth-round cornerback Jermod McCoy “will never play football again.”

Pauline wrote, “Cornerback Jermod McCoy was worth the upset in Round 4.” “There’s a possibility he’ll never play football again, and he could be sidelined until at least 2026, but if he returns healthy, it’ll be a bargain.”

McCoy entered draft day as a projected first-round pick. Nevertheless, reports from NFL doctors revealed that the Tennessee defensive back had a possible “degenerative knee condition”. This led some to wonder whether McCoy might slip to second.

Of course, McCoy’s draft freefall didn’t end until Day 3, when the Raiders made him the 101st overall pick. Still only 20 years old, it would be a major tragedy if McCoy never got a chance to showcase his talents on an NFL field, yet teams clearly had concerns about his knee.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft recap: Best class in years, but the wide receiver room still needs an answer

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Everyone was talking about Fernando Mendoza on Thursday night, and rightfully so. The Raiders finally have their franchise quarterback, and this story will dominate the conversation for years. But Day 2 is where front offices show who they really are — and in Las Vegas, GM Jon Spitek gave us a few things to like and at least one decision to take back.

Did the attackers miss a gem the next day?

Let’s start with the one that is stuck in my claws.

When the Raiders and Texans made their trade — Las Vegas sent picks 36 and 117 to Houston in exchange for picks 38 and 91 — I got the logic on paper. You drop two spots, pick a third rounder, and you’re still getting your guy. But here’s the problem: The guy Houston wanted was Kayden McDonald, and I wanted the Raiders to take him. McDonald certainly could have gone in the first round – a rare playmaker at nose tackle weighing 330 pounds with elite production. This is not an exaggeration. He’s a generational interior guard, and the Raiders let him slide two spots off the board so they could get an extra pick.

I understand the draft-capital argument. I do. But there’s a version of this where you stay at 36, grab a McDonald’s, and your defensive line looks completely different in 2026. You don’t always get those players. Spytek called it a great move and said he believed Stukes would still be there and that he only needed to survive two picks to get his partner. Good. But the 36-year-old “our guy” could be a Pro Bowl-caliber nose tackle. Instead, McDonald’s is in Houston.

Now, to be fair, what the Raiders did with those picks is not without merit.

Spytek improves Raiders roster at points of need

Traydon Stukes, 38, addresses a real need. The Raiders’ secondary entered the draft at safety and nickelback, and Stucks can do both. He played free safety for three years at Arizona before being shifted to primarily cover the slot, and he recorded four interceptions last season. The concern is age – he’s an older guy and may be limited at max range – and that’s a legitimate knock. But the attackers were not making choices in a vacuum. They need athletes there, and Stukes fits a real hole.

At 67, they added edge rusher Kieron Crawford from Auburn, a former basketball player with good athleticism who could use development but can contribute immediately as a pass-rusher. With Max Crosby still presenting that line, Crawford doesn’t need to be an immediate impact guy. He just has to grow, and there’s a fair way.

Raiders best pick of day two

Then came the pick that I really liked the most the other day. With the 91st pick – the third-rounder they got from Houston – the Raiders took Texas A&M guard Trey Zuhn III, who adds versatility to the offensive line, having played multiple positions in the trenches in college. If Fernando Mendoza is the future, protecting him is the present. Zuhn fits into that priority. After spending two third-rounders on offensive linemen in Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant last year, the Raiders are bringing in young talent, which is exactly the right approach when you’ve handed your offense over to a 22-year-old quarterback who is making his first NFL start.

So where does that leave us after two days? The Raiders’ base is in Mendoza. They’ve added secondary help, depth on the edge and another piece to the offensive line. By most measures this is a functional draft. The choice of Stukes is reasonable, even if it doesn’t excite you. Crawford is a project with upside. The Zuhn was really good value.

But I keep coming back to Kayden McDonald. Getting a 330-pound nose tackle with that kind of production at this price doesn’t come often, and the Raiders pounced on him the first time around. Instead he chose business. Maybe SpyTech’s board told him he was stuck and an extra pick would be the better play. Maybe it was. We won’t know for three years.

What we do know is that after a decade of wandering in the desert, the Raiders have a plan, a quarterback, and a draft class that, at least, doesn’t blow it before it starts. This matters more than ever in Las Vegas.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1…More about Scott Gulbransen

The Las Vegas Raiders have big decisions to make over the next three days. Of course, the first pick won’t be a tough decision, but general manager Jon Spitek has nine other selections after the first round, and he needs immediate contributors.

Last year, the Raiders added 11 new players to their roster. However, other than running back Ashton Jeanty, the class of 2025 had a very disappointing season. The previous coaching staff preferred veterans like Alex Cappa and Tyler Lockett over Caleb Rogers and Jack Beech or Donte Thornton Jr.

If this year’s class gets as much playing time as last year’s group, the Raiders could see tremendous growth.

Las Vegas is only a few hours away, arriving on time. In the meantime, here’s a final 2026 mock draft for the Silver and Black. These selections are based on how the team can meet roster needs.

RELATED: Final 2026 NFL mock draft: Projecting Round 1 with trades

Round 1, Pick 1: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

The only lock in this year’s draft. Once the Raiders clinched the No. 1 spot in the standings, everyone knew they would turn their attention to Fernando Mendoza, who put on a show in front of the Raiders brass during the College Football Playoff.

General manager John Spitek could make changes to the card as the clock starts ticking on Thursday night. Mendoza will be the ray of hope this franchise needs to get back on the right path.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft: Jon Spytek’s 10 picks, 4 positions to pay attention to

Round 2, Pick 36: Jermaine Bernard, WR, Alabama

According to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden and Matt Miller, the Raiders will consider a second-round prospect who could help Mendoza at offensive tackle or wide receiver.

If that’s the case, the wideout is likely to have a more immediate impact by having a clear path to playing time on the field. Unless Las Vegas trades DJ Glaze, a rookie right tackle will have to compete with him for the job.

As rookies, Jack Beech and Donte Thornton Jr. played sparingly. Additionally, Spytek prepared him for former play-caller Chip Kelly’s offense. Offensive-minded head coach Clint Kubiak may want a different skill set or type of receiver for his system.

Jerami Bernard would be an ideal fit due to his ability to line up at all three receiver spots. Additionally, his experience in a motion-heavy offense should translate well to Kubiak’s scheme, which includes pre-snap movement to highlight mismatches.

Although Bernard does not have escape speed, he is difficult to bring down after the catch. More importantly, he rarely missed passes in college. Kubiak can finally rely on him as a reliable high-IQ playmaker to lead his receiver corps.

Round 3, Pick 67: AJ Holsey, S, LSU

AJ Holsey will provide the Raiders with the best of both worlds at safety. He can set the tone for the back end of the defense with bone-jarring tackles and forced turnovers in coverage.

Over the last two years at Houston and LSU, Halsey became a football magnet, recording eight interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He also played with controlled aggression and went the previous campaign without conceding a penalty.

Halsey is an all-around safety who can earn playing time immediately due to his ball skills. If necessary, he will line up on special teams while working his way up the depth chart.

Round 4, Pick 102: Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

Domonique Orange’s skill set and recent experience is exactly what the Raiders need on their defense.

Defensive tackles Jonah Laulou and Tonka Hemingway should play more snaps in the upcoming season after getting four sacks each. Las Vegas needs the nose tackles to combat double-teams and stop the run.

According to Pro Football Focus, the Orange played the second-most snaps (412) in the A-gap among FBS players. The 6-2, 325-pounder could start on opening day at nose tackle in defensive coordinator Rob Leonard’s 3-4 defense.

Round 4, Pick 117: Travis Burke, OT, Memphis

Although Glaze is the frontrunner to become the starting right tackle, he has had a disappointing sophomore season. He allowed 10 sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.

Yes, the Raiders’ previous coaching staff bears some of the blame for the poor offensive line play, however the new arrangement should not simply hand the starting job to Glaze. Spytek could add competition at right tackle.

Travis Burke has experience on both sides of the line, dating back to his time at Gardner-Webb. After playing left tackle for two years at Florida International, he joined the Memphis Tigers at right tackle in 2025.

If Burke is unable to beat out Glaze for the main spot at right tackle he could work his way into the swing tackle role.

Round 4, Pick 134: Ketron Allen, RB, Penn State

Las Vegas is expected to sign a veteran running back after the draft. Najee Harris is still available. However, for now, Spytek can fill the RB2 role with an experienced ball-carrier.

Ketron Allen played four collegiate seasons and led Penn State for three of those tenures. He has three-down ability if he is able to complete his blocking assignments. The 5-11, 216-pounder caught 70 passes for 490 yards and four touchdowns with the Nittany Lions.

Kellon Black is a popular choice for the Raiders due to Mendoza’s Indiana ties, but Kubiak may prefer a bigger tailback similar to his previous RB2, Zach Charbonnet, who is listed at 6-1, 214 pounds. At 5-9, 208 pounds, Black is an undersized running back.

Round 5, Pick 175: Caden Curry, EDGE, Ohio State

Max Crosby should be healthy for the upcoming season, though Spytek can’t ignore the wear and tear on the star’s body due to surgeries over the years. The team shut him down, in part, for his well-being so he could begin the recovery process from surgery on his meniscus.

All told, the Raiders need to improve their pass-rush depth. Free-agent acquisition Kwity Payne has the potential to line up at different positions, but Malcolm Cousins ​​will play on another one-year, prove-it deal.

While Caden Curry doesn’t have the versatility or athletic profile of a starting-round prospect at the position, the 6’3″, 257-pound defensive end could be an up-and-coming player. In his only season as a starter at Ohio State, he recorded 11 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss.

Round 6, Pick 185: Toriano Pride Jr., CB, Missouri

Due to size limitations, Toriano Pride Jr. will likely be a late pick on Day 3, but if not for his 5-10, 185-pound frame, he could be a popular sleeper pick.

Pride played two years at Clemson and a few years at Missouri, recording four pass breakups and two interceptions in each of his last two collegiate seasons. He uses 4.32 speed to make up for his lack of size in coverage and tackles well in space.

Pride isn’t going to line up against elite receivers at the pro level, but he could have a future at safety or behind Terron Johnson.

Round 6, Pick 208: Bishop Fitzgerald, S, USC

Spytek discusses the mathematics of his security room, which only has three players.

#attacker GM Jon Spytek: “We now have 3 safeties on the roster. It’s just a math equation that we must add one, and it’s a very good safety class. Obviously, it’s something we have to attack, and I’m glad the class looks the way it does.”

On security situation.

– Justin Churchill (@ChurchillAtoZ) 14 April 2026

The Raiders need to double down at the position. They may take a chance on Bishop Fitzgerald, who can contribute on special teams and bring ball production on the back end of the defense.

Critics will question Fitzgerald’s athletic profile, but that didn’t stop him from recording 24 pass breakups and 10 interceptions over the past two years at North Carolina State and USC.

Round 7, Pick 219: David Guesta, NT, Kentucky

The Raiders end the draft with another 300-plus-pounder who can stop the run but is better as a pass-rusher than the Orange, who is projected to go in the middle rounds.

You need to look beyond the basic box score numbers to realize David Guesta’s playmaking ability beyond his run stopping ability.

According to Pro Football Focus, Gusta recorded 29 pressures with an 11 percent pass-rush win rate last season. He’s an intriguing late-round prospect who could carve out a three-down role in the defensive line rotation. In 2025, the Kentucky product played 258 snaps in the A-gap, according to PFF.

Maurice Moton covers the Raiders for the Silver and Black TODAY – Powered by Sportsknot. You can follow him on Twitter @momoton.

RELATED: 5 Las Vegas Raiders Whose April Minicamp Appearance Tells Us Everything

Maurice Moton is our senior NFL columnist and co-host of The Silver & Black Tonight on Southern California’s The Mighty… More about Mo Moton

Before the Raiders hit the clock, I want to go on the record.

Every year I do this. Every year, some of these age beautifully and some of them get screenshotted and thrown back in my face by people in my mentions who have been waiting since April to do the exact same thing. Good. This is the deal. You want accountable tech, they’re here.

Let’s start with the obvious and get it out of the way.

Fernando Mendoza has become number 1. I’m really going out on a limb here, aren’t I? The Raiders took over an Indiana quarterback who went 16–0, won a Heisman, threw 41 touchdowns against six interceptions and completed 72% of his passes in a national championship season. It takes almost zero courage to predict this. John Spytek said he has received calls about the selection and that teams “know where they stand.” This GM means stop calling us.

Mendoza is a Raider as of Thursday night at 8:15 pm Eastern time. write it down.

Now this is where it gets interesting.

How the top of the draft plays out past Mendoza

Jets It’s two o’clock and I’m taking Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey over Ohio State’s Arvel Reese. I know this is an unpopular approach. Reese is the unanimous choice, the athleticism darling, the guy most analysts have cornered. I don’t care. The Jets aren’t drafting for upside right now – they’re drafting for production. Bailey led the Big 12 with 14.5 sacks last season, posted 19.5 tackles for loss, and was disruptive every week against real competition. Reese has a high ceiling. Bailey has a track record. New York has been trying to replace their pass rush for half a decade and they don’t have the luxury of waiting on the potential Bailey already has to develop. The Jets took Bailey, and in two years no one remembered it being a surprise. But, this is a prediction that most of you will take a screenshot of.

Cornell Tate could not advance further than eighth place. On most boards he’s going somewhere between six and nine, and I’m not arguing with that range. He’s the most complete receiver in this class, a legitimate route runner who draws comparisons to Justin Jefferson from people whose opinions I really respect. Cleveland needs a receiver so badly that if he’s there at six, they’re not waiting. If it somehow falls, someone will do the business. Tate is leaving quickly with a smile on his face.

Omar Cooper Jr. is the wild card of the first round. Most big boards right now have him going between 13 and 16 — Dan Brugler at The Athletic has him ranked 21st overall, NFL.com’s Mock continues to have him landing at 13 on the Rams, and Todd McShay has him in the middle of the first round. Daniel Jeremiah expressed the possibility that he would lose in the second round. I think the truth lies somewhere between the consensus and Jeremiah. His receiving totals never topped 1,000 yards in college, and for all the athleticism and yards after the catch, NFL teams are going to be talking to themselves before Thursday night is over. He doesn’t make it to Round 2, but he doesn’t make it to Round 13 either. Cooper lands somewhere in the 18-22 range, and whoever took him there feels like they stole something.

What about the Raiders in Round 2?

Now – Raiders at 36.

The receiver board in this location is actually quite interesting. Zachariah Branch, Kevin Concepcion, and Isaiah Bonds all sit in that late-first to mid-second tier, and in most years at least one – if not two – of them are gone before the Raiders even get on the clock. Concepcion, in particular, is a mid-20s player on a lot of boards and probably shouldn’t have gotten here. If he does that, this type of slide teams onto the podium quickly. Any one of them makes sense here.

But the name I remember over and over again is Jeremy Bernard. The Alabama receiver doesn’t have the buzz of the top names in this class, but he weighs in at 6-1, 206 pounds and led the Crimson Tide in catches last season with 50 receptions for 794 yards. Dan Brugler called him a favorite among scouts and coaches, especially because of his versatility in all formations and his competitive mentality. He’s not a slam dunk pick here – Branch and Bonds both have arguments – but if Spytek is building around Mendoza’s comfort and wants a receiver who can line up at multiple spots and work quickly, Bernard fits that profile better than anyone else at this level. Kubiak will find ways to get him the ball.

Either way, the Raiders come out of Round 2 with a pass catcher. I’ll bet on it.

Attackers in Round 3 and beyond

When Vegas gets to 67 in round 3, I think SpyTech goes to the rescue. Specifically, defensive tackle. McDonald visited Henderson and everyone keeps throwing up his name, but let’s be honest – Kayden McDonald is an intriguing prospect. Many boards have him in the mid to late round of the first round, and if he somehow ends up in the late part of Round 2, Spytek should be trading on the phone, not sitting and waiting. He will no longer be there at the age of 67.

A more realistic target is Domonique Orange out of Iowa State. He visited Henderson, he weighs 325 pounds and projects as a round 3-4 pick across the board. He’s not a pass rusher, but in Rob Leonard’s 3-4, the nose tackle’s job is to hold the point of attack and keep the linebackers clean. Orange does exactly that.

Chris McClellan from Missouri is another name here. He also visited, and what separates him from the Orange isn’t pass-rush production (scouts doubt that part of his game), it’s versatility. McClellan can line up anywhere from zero-technique to 4i, which gives a defensive coordinator more options depending on personnel. One of them is a raider as of Saturday morning.

The secondary is addressed on the third day with at least one selection of the fourth round. Three fourth rounders are a luxury. Spytek uses one on a cornerback – I guess Delenn Everett from Georgia visited. The projection range on Everett is wide, anywhere from the end of Day 2 to the beginning of Day 3, so nabbing him with one of those fourth-round picks is realistic without a stretch.

The running back comes in on day three. There’s the name of Indiana’s Kellon Black – physical runner, strong in pass protection, and running backs to that national championship with Mendoza in two seasons. He projects in the fifth or sixth round, right where the Raiders have options sitting. You’re not asking him to go back to being featured. You’re asking him to provide a capable rotation option to Ashton Jeanty and contribute on special teams. Black can do this.

Then there’s Boston College offensive lineman Logan Taylor, who made the top 30 with the Raiders. He weighs 6-7, 314 pounds and started games at all four positions on the line in college – left tackle, left guard, right guard, right tackle. He is not someone who has wandered into a position; He is a man who has learned how to play football. You don’t need that to get started. You need him to give your offensive line room a reliable backup who can plug in anywhere when things get rough, and Taylor provides exactly that. He is the person chosen for the third day who fits the role of the third day perfectly.

Then it’s a receiver, a safety or two, a linebacker that makes your special teams coach smile. The third day is where you throw darts and hope one of them sticks.

Here’s my main takeaway: The Raiders will not be a contender in 2026. Anyone telling you otherwise is not straight with you. Six wins, maybe seven, is a realistic outcome in Year 1 of this rebuild. But a good draft – a Mendoza, a receiver at 36, a nose tackle at 67, secondary depth in Round 4, and a running back with system familiarity at the end of Day 3 – sets this thing up nicely for 2027 and beyond.

Check back Friday morning. I will remain here, either paying obeisance or explaining myself.

maybe both.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Ashton Jeanty’s rookie season is in the books. The numbers were good. The situation around him was not there.

This will change in 2026.

The Boise State alumnus was the sixth overall pick a year ago and was someone the Raiders latched onto early on. He racked up 266 carries for 975 yards and five touchdowns. Through the air, he caught 55 passes on 73 targets for 346 yards and five more scores.

This adds up to a total of 321 touches for 1,321 yards and 10 touchdowns.

As one of the top offensive weapons for the Silver and Black, let’s see what he could become in 2026.

Kubiak’s run-heavy blueprint

Last year in Seattle, as offensive coordinator, Kubiak had a pair of running backs in his offense. Kenneth Walker III – the Super Bowl MVP two months earlier – registered 221 carries for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. Zach Charbonnet added 184 carries and 730 yards with two touchdowns.

Combined, he had a total of 405 carries for 1,757 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

Two years ago, when Kubiak was in New Orleans, Alvin Kamara had 228 carries for 950 yards and six touchdowns. Kamara led the Saints with 68 receptions on 89 targets for 543 yards and two more scores. This came with then-Raiders quarterback Derek Carr leading the attack.

That heavy-handed approach will be key to what Jeanty is asked to do in Las Vegas. They will be expected to produce weekly.

Also Read: Las Vegas Raiders Tyree Wilson: Rob Leonard’s 3-4 scheme is his last chance to break out

What does history say about gentry roofing

Whether it’s a bell-cow back or a two-back system, Jeanty is expected to have at least 20 touches per game in a Raiders uniform.

But that production will take more than just Jeanty – it will take a whole crime.

“Very excited about his skill set,” Kubiak said of Jeanty during his introductory press conference in February. “Very excited about his talent. The thing I tell him and all his teammates is it’s not one guy. We’ve got to get on the same page, line up. We’ve got to get our quarterback to get the right run check. Our receivers have got to get on the block for him to keep the play action going. As soon as our players realize it’s a team thing and not an individual thing, we’re going to be successful.”

From Kirk Cousins, Aidan O’Connell or Fernando Mendoza to center Tyler Linderbaum and left tackle Colton Miller to wide receivers Jack Beech and Jalen Naylor, establishing an offensive identity with the run will be key.

The only question is how quickly everyone will be able to learn the new plan.

Also Read: 5 Las Vegas Raiders Whose April Minicamp Appearance Tells Us Everything

Learning curve for Jeanty in 2026

From the moment quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​signed with the Raiders, he said, “The best quarterback will play.”

Right now, the Raiders have Cousins ​​and Aidan O’Connell on the roster at quarterback. The Silver and Black will add another signal-caller to the projected No. 1 pick, Fernando Mendoza out of Indiana.

Over his career, Cousins ​​has had useful running backs – players like Alfred Morris and Dalvin Cook.

Cook’s four best seasons with Minnesota came from 2019 to 2022, resulting in a Pro Bowl selection. This stretch also coincides with Kubiak serving as the Vikings’ quarterbacks coach in 2019 and 2020 before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2021.

In the three seasons Cook, Cousins ​​and Kubiak were together, Cook had at least 249 carries and 1,130 rushing yards per year. He scored 35 rushing touchdowns over those three seasons, including 16 in 2020. Through the air, Cook had at least 49 targets and 34 receptions for 220 yards each year.

In 2019, Cook played in 14 games and totaled 250 carries for 1,135 yards and 13 touchdowns, adding 53 receptions on 63 targets for 519 yards.

“It’s really a privilege to work with Clint again,” Cousins ​​said during his Raiders introductory press conference. “I think a lot about him as a person. I think a lot about his system, his staff, Rick, Andrew, the way they marry and pass. It’s a system that makes a lot of sense. I’m excited to be reunited with them.”

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft: 5 takeaways from Jon Spytek’s pre-draft press conference

Cousin Factor for Jeanty

One thing that will be worth watching is how quickly Cousins ​​and O’Connell adapt to the offense. For Cousins, it’s a case of relearning the scheme.

In addition to Kubiak, Cousins ​​is also reuniting with offensive coordinator Andrew Janko after his time in Minnesota. Janko was with the Vikings for seven seasons, including 2017 to 2021.

The goal this spring and summer will be to see how much offense Cousins ​​can regain.

“I wanted it to be plug-and-play but as all great offenses do, it evolves,” Cousins ​​said. “When I first came here I said to Andrew, ‘We’ve got a lot of catching up to do. It’s been four seasons of football but I’m not done with you.’ He texted me later and said, ‘I forgot it’s been four seasons. We have done a lot in four years that have made a difference.”

the ball is his

Cousins ​​and the quarterback situation will be sorted out. It will take time to establish the crime. Sufferings will increase.

But there’s no question about one thing: Jeanty is getting the ball. Very. In the offense created for what he does. Year 2 starts now.

RELATED: Michael Meyer has never had a real QB with the Las Vegas Raiders, but that will change in 2026

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

The Las Vegas Raiders voluntary veteran minicamp runs April 21-23, two days before the start of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. No one should come forward. That’s the whole purpose of calling it voluntary.

That’s why it matters so much who does it.

Clint Kubiak is a first-year head coach who inherits a roster that went 3-14 last season. He needs to know who bought him before he takes a single regular season snap. Players also know this. Coming to a voluntary camp in April, right before draft weekend, when the entire football world is looking elsewhere, is a statement. So stay at home.

Here are five Raiders whose appearance in April will tell us more than anything they said in a press conference.

1. Max Crosby

Let’s get the obvious out of the way first. Crosby appeared for the first round of workouts on April 7, which was encouraging after everything that happened with the zero-Baltimore trade. But step one is meetings and raises. Minicamp is different. It’s on-field work and Crosby is still recovering from knee surgery in January to repair a torn meniscus.

His agent has said he is ahead of schedule. If Crosby is on the field, even in a limited capacity, on April 21-23, it sends a message to this locker room that goes far beyond his physical recovery. It tells every player on this roster that the guy with the most complaints about him is still the first one to come through the door. Kubiak can’t produce that kind of leadership. Either Crosby provides it, or he doesn’t.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders GM Jon Spytek, coach Clint Kubiak addressed Max Crosby trade fallout in NFL meetings

2. Tyree Wilson

This is the one I am watching most closely. Tyree Wilson is entering a contract year, after which the Raiders will almost certainly not pick up his fifth-year option. His draft stock coming out of Texas A&M was skyrocketing — No. 7 overall pick in 2023 — and it’s fair to say his first three NFL seasons haven’t matched that billing. He’s a rotational piece in a 3-4 defense that just added QT Pay and still keeps Crosby at the top of the depth chart.

Wilson showing up to a voluntary minicamp under a new defensive coordinator with his roster spot and his future on the line tells me he understands this moment. Staying at home will give me the opposite results. With Rob Leonard setting up a plan that requires buy-in at every level of the front seven, there’s no place to hide in this minicamp for anyone competing for snaps.

3. Cancer Cousins

Kirk Cousins ​​is getting $20 million fully guaranteed to be a bridge in front of Fernando Mendoza. He reunited with his former coordinator Kubiak, and has said all the right things publicly since signing. But before Mendoza gets into the building, what Cousins ​​does over the next few months will define how that quarterback room really plays out in 2026.

Showing up next week and throwing to receivers, working through Kubiak’s system, getting comfortable in a new offense and a new city — that’s the veteran leadership the Raiders are paying him for. Cousins ​​knows how to be professional. This is where he proves it matters in Las Vegas, just like it did everywhere else.

4. Brock Bowers

Brock Bowers returned from a PCL injury last season and still had 64 catches, 680 yards and seven touchdowns in 12 games. He is 22 years old and already one of the best players in football. This minicamp isn’t about Bowers proving anything — it’s about him and Cousins ​​starting to build that chemistry between him and Cousins ​​to really make Kubiak’s offense work before training camp in July.

Kubiak is an offensive coach who loves his tight ends. Bowers is the most important offensive weapon on this roster. They’re both building relationships early — in April, before most teams get anywhere near that kind of work — getting the kind of head start that pays off in September. Bowers is showing cases. Very.

5. Jackson Powers-Johnson

Here’s one that might surprise people. Jackson Powers-Johnson was a second-round pick in 2024 who began the season on injured reserve after breaking his fibula in training camp. He bounced back and played solid football in the second half of the year and now the addition of Tyler Linderbaum at center gives the Raiders arguably the best interior offensive line they have had in years.

But Linderbaum and Powers-Johnson never played together. Cousins ​​never played behind any of them. April minicamp is the first real opportunity for that unit to begin working as a group, even in a non-contact setting. Powers-Johnson being present and engaged, working through alignments, and getting comfortable with Linderbaum next to him makes sense for an offensive line that was historically bad in 2025 and needs to be dramatically better for this offense to work.

This draft will get everyone’s attention on April 23-25. But what happens in Henderson on April 21-23 will matter just as much for where this team goes. Voluntary does not mean unimportant. In Kubiak’s first year, it means quite the opposite.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft: 5 takeaways from Jon Spytek’s pre-draft press conference

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Let’s make one thing clear before we proceed: Tom Brady matters to the Las Vegas Raiders.

His presence in the building is real, his involvement in football decisions is documented and his fingerprints are on everything this organization has done since becoming a minority owner in October 2024. Jon Spytek put it clearly: Brady is involved in everything football-wise and that includes the most important pick in franchise history coming up later this month.

But here’s the question no one in Raider Nation is asking out loud: When the dust settles on the Mendoza era, the Kubiak era and whatever comes after, who really owns this team?

Because that answer is being quietly written right now, and it has nothing to do with Tom Brady.

Brady’s role is real – but it has limits

I will give credit where appropriate. Brady is more than a celebrity endorsement for the Raiders. Kubiak said he has been calling Brady frequently since getting the job, relying on him as a resource with a different offensive background. Spytek has openly credited Brady in the quarterback evaluation process, which is pretty important when you’re about to spend the No. 1 overall pick on a franchise signal-caller. When Adam Schefter appeared on the Pat McAfee show and was asked how Brady has been involved in all these offseason moves, the answer was clear – Brady didn’t find out about the Kirk Cousins ​​signing from a tweet. He was involved in this.

But Brady himself was clear about where his role actually ends. He is a limited partner. Mark Davis is the boss. There is no job description that comes with a minority stake, and Brady has openly acknowledged this. He wants to win. He wants to bring a winning culture to Las Vegas. He wants to be a part of something that lasts. They are real things and I believe he means them all.

What he is not, and cannot be in any practical sense, is the long-term answer to the Raiders’ ownership question. That answer is already in danger, and his name is Egon Durban.

The Durban angle is the story no one can quite connect with

Last week at the NFL’s annual meeting in Phoenix, owners voted to approve the Raiders succession plan, formalizing what has been quietly building for more than a year. The NFL approved the sale of 3.5% of the team to Egon Durban at a valuation of $11.1 billion, with another 3.5% expected to follow – and the deal gives Durban the right of first refusal on Davis’ controlling stake if Davis decides to sell.

Mark Davis, who has no children, has said he has no intention of selling his majority stake. I believe what he says. But Davis is 70, and his mother, Carol, died last October. The NFL needs succession plans. And what was just approved doesn’t leave much to the imagination about how it will ultimately work.

Durban structured the deal with a right of first refusal that rules out every other bidder. If Davis or his successors ever sell, Durban gets the first call. A man. A phone call. An outcome is already written into the contract.

That is not a show. This is the biggest organizational story surrounding this franchise that isn’t Fernando Mendoza.

So where does Brady fit into all this?

Brady owns 5% of the team. Durban already held a 7.5% stake before this latest deal and that figure is now moving towards a position that could ultimately mean controlling ownership. The two men were photographed together during the College Football Playoff National Championship in January. After news of the succession plan broke, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer summed it up in four words: “Egon Durban is Brady’s guy.”

That framing is worth sitting with. If Durban ultimately owns this team, and Brady is his guy, then Brady’s long-term impact with the Raiders isn’t just as a football consultant, and it may be as the minority voice most associated with the next principal owner.

It’s a different kind of power than what’s discussed in offseason press conferences. It is quieter, slower moving and obviously more consequential.

What this means for the Raiders’ rebuild

In the short term, it doesn’t change anything that happens in Pittsburgh on April 23, or what Clint Kubiak is building from this week in Henderson. Football decisions are being made by Spytek, informed by Brady and approved by Davis. The question of succession is background noise right now.

But Raider Nation needs to understand what’s really being built here, because it goes beyond the roster. Mark Davis created something real by moving this franchise to Las Vegas – an $11.1 billion franchise valuation does not happen without vision and execution at the ownership level. The question of who inherits it and what they do with it is one of the most important long-term stories in the NFL right now.

Brady gets the spotlight. Durban has a choice.

In Las Vegas, that difference matters.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1…More about Scott Gulbransen

The Las Vegas Raiders officially began their 2026 offseason schedule on Tuesday. No pad. No live representative. No, Fernando Mendoza is not taking pictures in the silver and black just yet. Just meetings, strength and conditioning work, and rehab of players coming back from injury.

Sounds boring, right?

it.

What happens in those first days, especially how Clint Kubiak runs them, will tell us more about the direction of this franchise than any free agent signing or mock draft projection. Culture doesn’t start in training camp. It doesn’t start with a draft. It starts now, in a building in Henderson, Nevada, with a first-year head coach trying to establish something this organization has lacked for too long: a coherent identity.

Kubiak has a chance to set the tone for whatever is to come this week. How he uses it is what matters.

Meetings are where culture is made – or broken

Stage one is essentially a classroom stage. The players are in the building, they’re conditioning their bodies and they’re sitting in the meeting room. For Kubiak, it’s really an opportunity, not a limitation.

Every new coaching staff faces the same challenge in Year 1: Players are bringing habits, tendencies and, frankly, the baggage of whoever came before them (ahem, Pete Carroll!). The Raiders have had substantial coaching changes in recent years, with some of the veterans having seen this film before. They know how to nod in meetings and wait to see if the new guy is really different. Three coaches will do this to one player in three years.

Clint Kubiak really needs to be different.

This means that messages in those rooms may not be as normal this week. It can’t be “we’ll work hard and hold each other accountable” boilerplate. Raider Nation has heard it. The players in that building have heard it. What they haven’t heard, and what this organization hasn’t had for years, is a clear, specific, non-negotiable vision of how this team will operate. Just not aggressively. Just not in a planned manner. Culturally.

This is Kubiak’s chance to draw that line in the sand before even throwing a single ball.

Max Crosby sets the tone if Kubiak empowers him to do so

Here’s something that isn’t discussed enough: Max Crosby’s presence in that building this week is just as important as Kubiak said.

Crosby’s trade with Baltimore was voided. He is an attacker. And does Kubiak still fully understand it, Crosby is the most important cultural asset he has. Not because of his rush numbers, although they speak for themselves, but because of what Crosby represents to every player who walks through that door.

He decided to stay. He could force his way out. He didn’t.

This means a lot in a locker room environment where players want to see who really believes in what is being built in Vegas. If Kubiak is smart, he’s leaning on Crosby in those early meetings. Not in a fanciful, “let’s cheer on the star” way — but in a genuine acknowledgment that the approach of the veteran leadership and coaching staff has to work in the same direction, or none of it will work.

A coaching staff that sidelines its own culture bearers in Year 1 is a coaching staff that is already behind.

What Kubiak’s approach says about his leadership style

New head coaches fall into two camps as the early offseason begins. Some people treat phase one as a formality, like getting bodies into the building, checking compliance boxes and saving the actual setup for OTAs and training camp. Others consider it the basis.

Given what Jon Spytek and the Raiders have built this offseason, Clint Kubiak can’t afford to treat this as a formality. They are having a voluntary veteran minicamp April 20-22, three days before the draft begins in Pittsburgh. That minicamp, combined with the first two weeks of Phase One, gives Kubiak about three weeks to establish the relational equity he’ll need when real competition begins.

Three weeks is not long. But it is enough to show the players what kind of head coach you are. Does he know their names before he knows your snap counts, do you walk the same way in the practice facility, are the cameras running or not, are the standards you preach the standards you actually enforce.

Attention is paid to those things. They are discussed. They go from veteran to young players faster than any plan.

All eyes are on Kubiak and the tone he sets

Tuesday is the beginning of something. Is this the start of something real. Will this be a cultural change that will actually stick in Las Vegas or not? It depends on what Clint Kubiak actually decides to do these early, quiet, unnatural weeks.

The Raiders have plenty of big moments and bold announcements. What they’re missing is the foundation beneath all this.

The first phase is starting from Tuesday. Now the foundation is laid.

Scott Gulbranson is the editor-in-chief of our Silver & Black TODAY Las Vegas Raiders community, a member of the Pro Football Writers of America, and host of Silver & Black TODAY on 101.5 KDAWN in Las Vegas.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

For the first time since the failed Max Crosby trade, Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spitek and head coach Clint Kubiak publicly addressed the fallout — and both looked like men who came out the other side just fine.

At the NFL’s annual league meetings in Phoenix this week, the two spoke candidly about the five-time Pro Bowl defensive end and what the chaotic sequence of events at the start of free agency ultimately meant for the franchise.

Las Vegas Raiders GM gets an ‘elite’ member during free agency

Earlier this month, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on March 6 that a deal was underway to send Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round draft picks. The new league year was required to start on 11 March before the deal could be made official. But before that could happen, Baltimore backed out – citing concerns about Crosby’s surgically repaired knee – and the pass rusher returned to the silver and black.

The timing of that reversal didn’t disrupt the team’s offseason plans as much as it might seem, Spytek said.

“Just the timing of it, it didn’t really happen,” Spytek said. “We did what we did on Monday, and that was Tuesday when it all happened. We had a lot of cap space and a lot of cash was provided to us by Mark [Davis] And the ownership group has to be aggressive and build the team in the best way possible. I’ll echo what Clint said – the way it worked out, it was like we got another elite defensive end in free agency.

Those signings — notably center Tyler Linderbaum and edge rusher Qwity Paye — came during the legal tampering window, just before the Ravens pulled the plug.

Development of a General Manager

Crosby has seen a parade of general managers and head coaches come through the organization since being drafted in 2019. Spytek, who has worked to build trust with his star player from the beginning, said communication between them has never stopped.

“I have had many great conversations with Max since the beginning of his tenure here and we have had many great conversations throughout the season,” Spytek said. “We had a deal at the end of the season, which everyone knows about. We talked about it in the months leading up to the deal. Max and I have continued to have good conversations since. I know he and Clint have had good conversations, too. We just try to tell each other the truth and not have a lot of secrets or unknowns. Max, Clint and I will continue to work that way.”

Spytek also talked about the importance of making those difficult roster decisions – ones that impact players beyond the football field.

“Those are all challenging conversations,” Spytek said. “I try to sit down with that person in that moment and explain the reasons why we’re doing it, and try to be as honest and candid as I can. For me, those are all deeply personal conversations because you know how deeply it affects that person. I don’t just see them as a player. This is changing their lives.”

Also Read: Mark Davis Isn’t Selling the Raiders So Stop Acting Like He Is

Kubiak: “Our team is better now”

Kubiak came to Las Vegas after helping Seattle win the Super Bowl last month, giving him a compressed timeline to assemble his coaching staff — all while watching this trade saga play out in real time.

He didn’t hide how he felt when Spytech told him the deal was off.

“Anytime there’s a trade, you always know there’s a downside to it,” Kubiak said. “Once it happened, I was really excited. When Spy came and talked to me about it, we sat down and my first thing was to smile. ‘Oh, we have Max back. Are you kidding me? It’s great.’ “Our team has gotten better.”

With the signing of Paye, Malcolm Koonce retained, and Tyree Wilson still on the team, Las Vegas enters 2026 with legitimate depth along the defensive line. Crosby’s return only solidifies what was already shaping up to be a priority area.

One remaining question is whether Crosby will be in the reckoning immediately when the regular season opens. He had meniscus surgery in January and is not expected to make a full recovery until this summer.

“These are things we have to work on,” Kubiak said. “We have to get him healthy enough to practice. I know he’s going to put himself in great condition to do that, and we’ll probably have conversations about that as we move forward. Just taking small steps right now.”

The coach did not seem worried about the deadline. He’s seen how Crosby works.

“Max is our guy. He’s the leader on defense.”

Also Read: Las Vegas Raiders: 5 second round pick options for GM John Spytek

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

Overall, the Las Vegas Raiders are preparing to make Fernando Mendoza the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s even reportedly already learning the offense from Brian Griese, who has overlap with first-year Raiders head coach Clint Kubiak on the 49ers in 2023.

Still, Mendoza is not expected to be the Raiders’ Week 1 starter. Las Vegas would love to find a bridge QB who can hold down the starting job until they determine the Heisman winner is ready for the job, no matter how long that takes.

recently, athleticSaad Youssef gave an idea of ​​who that QB could be. He plans to sign free agent Kirk Cousins ​​for the Raiders.

The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback wants an opportunity to play in 2025 after being limited to just eight starts. That opportunity could come in Vegas, where he would be an ideal veteran mentor for a rookie QB.

Cousins ​​not only has 14 seasons of NFL experience, but he spent the first three seasons of his career largely as a backup, starting only nine games in that time. Mendoza’s career certainly won’t start off the same way, but that doesn’t mean he can’t learn a lot from Cousins ​​early on.

Ultimately, Cousins ​​and the Raiders could be a perfect fit. He gets a chance to play (even if there’s no guarantee he’ll play for long), and they make sure a talented veteran who isn’t afraid to work can help coach their young franchise QB.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

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Earlier this week, future Hall of Famer and New England Patriots icon Tom Brady revealed in an interview with CNBC that he had recently seriously considered returning to the field. However, the 15-time Pro Bowler also revealed that the NFL “didn’t like the idea very much.”

It wasn’t because they didn’t want to see the 48-year-old make a spectacular return to the NFL. This was because he wanted to do so and retain his minority ownership in the Las Vegas Raiders. Which is a big no-no. Still, he clearly has a desire to play, and that’s probably why he was the driving force behind creating the Fanatics Flag Football Classic this year.

But for a man who ruined his marriage just to play one more season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it may not be enough. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio added to that thought on Sunday. He wrote, “Still got the itch. He can still play. He’ll be better right now than some of the players who are going to be starters in 2026.”

“Will the itch go away? Possibly. If not, selling his stake back to Mark Davis could be an easier path out of a situation in which his role doesn’t match the franchise’s expectations.”

On the outside chance that Tom Brady surprisingly gives up his stake in the Raiders for another season in the league, let’s take a look at five teams he would be willing to play for.

las vegas raiders

Obviously, the most likely option would be to suit up for the team he was signed to. Las Vegas was rumored to be a landing spot when he left New England several years ago, and he clearly has a bond with majority owner Mark Davis. While the Raiders are no closer to a title contender, Brady would have unheard of power as their starting QB.

This would be a dream scenario for the franchise. They’ll be getting a year from, arguably, the greatest QB ever, and they’re projected to have No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza learn from him for a season.

pittsburgh steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are playoff contenders, but they haven’t had a true Pro Bowl-level QB since the days of Ben Roethlisberger. That’s why they’ve learned about Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers over the last two years. There is a real possibility that Brady could perform worse than the two future Hall of Famers. Or, he could be better, and it could be enough to lead Pittsburgh to the AFC Championship.

indianapolis colts

The Indianapolis Colts have a mixup at the QB1 spot. Daniel Jones was great for most of the 2025 season before he broke a bone in his foot and then tore his Achilles. They are now forced to hope that he can return sooner than expected because they could not find a better player in free agency or the draft. However, Brady could have if he was available.

The Colts looked like a Super Bowl contender before Jones got injured. And Philip Rivers walked off the street at 44 and looked good at times because of the weapons he had. At 48 years old, Brady can help Indy reach the playoffs and advance.

carolina panthers

The Carolina Panthers also have a very tough situation at the QB1 spot as this is a make or break year for former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young. However, if Tom Brady were available, Carolina would take advantage of the opportunity and make every impact he can if it helps them win some games in the playoffs next year.

atlanta falcons

Despite having a messy QB situation in 2025, the Atlanta Falcons are still 8-9. Same record as the division champion Panthers. With weapons like Bijan Robinson and Drake London, adding Brady to the mix could be enough to get them to 10 wins and homefield in a playoff game. Plus, whenever Michael Penix Jr. returns, he can also learn a thing or two by sitting down with the NFL legend.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Las Vegas Raiders were already dealing with a difficult offseason when they suffered another blow. On Friday morning, the Las Vegas Raiders shared heartbreaking news on Twitter, announcing the passing of Barrett Robbins – a player whose story went far beyond the field.

Born on August 26, 1973, in Houston, Texas, Robbins was selected in the second round by TCU in the 1995 NFL Draft out of Sharpstown High School. In eight seasons with the Raiders, he anchored the offensive line with consistency and patience, appearing in 121 games and starting 105. During his tenure, the Raiders led the league in scoring in 2000 and total offense in 2002.

Robbins wasn’t just a reliable presence in the trenches – he was one of the league’s elite at his position. By 2002, he was in the midst of a Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro campaign, and snapped the ball for one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.

Before Super Bowl XXXVII, Robbins went missing just one day before kickoff. When he resurfaced, he was confused, unable to recognize where he was or who he was with. What initially seemed incomprehensible was later understood in a more serious light.

Robbins was misdiagnosed with depression during his college years, when he was actually struggling with bipolar disorder. In the crucial week before the Super Bowl, he did not take his prescribed medication. He was ultimately suspended for the game by head coach Bill Callahan.

He returned briefly in 2003 to reclaim his starting role, but his NFL career ended abruptly after a suspension for performance-enhancing substances. He never played another match in the league.

In the years that followed, Robins’ struggles continued off the field. Battles with mental health and substance abuse led to multiple arrests, stints in jail, and spending time in rehabilitation facilities. His life after football became a difficult cycle, highlighting how little support systems once existed for players facing these challenges.

The passing of Barrett Robbins is undeniably tragic. But more than that, it serves as a sobering reminder: behind the helmets and highlight reels, there are real people fighting real battles. His story highlights the vital importance of mental health awareness in professional sports. Because taking care of the mind is as important as taking care of the body, on and off the field.

Clint Kubiak changed his mind.

Three weeks after the Las Vegas Raiders announced their coaching staff would be without a quarterbacks coach – a decision that raised eyebrows considering the decision was coming on April 23 – Kubiak has returned and filled the spot. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo, the Raiders are hiring longtime NFL assistant Mike Sullivan for the role.

Sullivan, 59, has been a quarterbacks coach in this league four times: twice with the New York Giants, once with the Denver Broncos, and most recently with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2021-23. He also has experience as an offensive coordinator with the Buccaneers and Giants. He was set to join Rutgers as a senior offensive assistant before coming back to Las Vegas. The two have history, as Sullivan and Kubiak were on the same Broncos staff in 2018.

Rent matters for an obvious reason. Fernando Mendoza is almost certainly walking through that door as the No. 1 pick in Pittsburgh on April 23 and the Raiders have a complicated history developing young quarterbacks. Sullivan helped bring along Eli Manning during New York’s 2011 Super Bowl run. He has done this before also.

When I wrote about this vacancy in early March, the thinking around the organization was that Kubiak, along with OC Andrew Janko and assistant head coach Mike McCoy, had enough experienced offensive minds in the building to cover the position. This is still true. But adding Sullivan doesn’t hurt. It just means Mendoza has another voice – a dedicated one – when the real work begins.

The question mark on the staff in 2026 was always Rob Leonard on defense, not the QB room. Sullivan’s appointment does not change that. But for a franchise that has often botched quarterback development, getting this piece right matters. Kubiak called. Now we’ll see what Sullivan does with it.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

Whenever something happens with Raiders ownership, the Internet loses its focus. Last week was no different.

When ESPN’s Seth Wickersham and Don Van Natta Jr. broke the news that NFL owners were about to vote on a succession plan that would give Silver Lake co-CEO Egon Durban the option to buy a majority stake in the team from Mark Davis ESPN, the Hot Take practically wrote itself. He is withdrawing money. The Davis era is over. Here comes private equity.

Pump the brakes.

Sources close to Davis were clear to ESPN: “Mark has no intention of selling his majority stake in the team. This sets up a seamless succession plan.”

Now, yes – the fact that the sentiment came from an unknown source rather than Davis is a little strange. But the underlying message is not complicated, even if the structure of the deal is complex.

Why is Mark Davis succession planning with the Raiders?

What’s really happening here is that Mark Davis, who will turn 71 in May and has no children, is doing something responsible. He is making sure there is a clear, pre-approved path for the franchise if control ever needs to change hands. That’s not a red flag. This is the estate plan with the NFL rule book attached.

There are no outside intruders in Durban. He purchased a 7.5% stake in the Raiders in December 2024, the same window that brought Tom Brady into minority ownership. Those partners will help the organization on the business side, Davis said at the time. Giving Durban a pre-approved route to majority ownership – contingent on Davis actually deciding to sell – is a logical extension of that existing relationship, not a fire sale in disguise.

Other details worth noting: Davis recently inherited shares in the franchise after his late mother, Carol Davis, passed away in October 2025. He has more of this team now than he did six months ago. It doesn’t seem as if a man is preparing to go out.

Attackers controlling ownership won’t change anytime soon

Look, reasonable people can question Mark Davis’s decisions over the years. Stadium moves, the coaching carousel, front office churn — there’s a long list. But mixing succession planning with the intention to sell is a fundamental misreading of what we have in front of us. Every major owner with no direct heir will eventually have to answer the question of what happens next. Davis is answering it on his own terms, in advance, with a partner he’s already vetted.

The vote at the league’s annual spring meeting, which begins March 29 in Phoenix, does not indicate any imminent changes. It signals the opposite: stability. A guarantee that if the worst happens, the league will not have to struggle and the franchise will not get into any messy legal disputes.

The Davis family has been associated with this franchise for more than 60 years. Whatever happened last week didn’t change that. Mark Davis is still the owner, still making the decisions, and still overseeing the rebuild under GMs Jon Spytek and Tom Brady, in whom he clearly has confidence. That’s not the end of succession planning. It’s more than just Mark Davis’ preparation that he is usually given credit for.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

The Las Vegas Raiders have already traded Max Crosby once. Some doubt they can do it again, especially not at the same price.

Still, even if the Raiders can’t recoup two first-round picks for a trade for the five-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher, that doesn’t mean the deal isn’t completely off the table.

According to ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, even if Crosby is committed to the Raiders, a trade is still possible, potentially closer to the 2026 NFL Draft.

Everyone feels like they’re in a good position, Fowler said, but since they’ve already taken care of the business, they’re open to that possibility, potentially, if the right offer comes along. “We’re looking at the timelines here; it’s going to be a little slower now, but you’ll get closer to the draft, maybe trade offers heat up, or maybe even closer to the season. But right now, he’s a Raider, and that’s expected to be the case at least for a while.”

Even after a failed physical, the Raiders should be able to get at least a first-round pick in exchange for Crosby. Still, finding the right fit is more difficult because most teams have already dedicated their money to other players and filled their needs with other pass-rushers. Still, that doesn’t mean another contender can’t emerge later.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft After NFL Free Agency Negotiation Window

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The NFL’s free agency frenzy is barely a week old and Yahoo Sports insider Caroline Fenton already has a team she believes is going to look really, really bad in about 24 months.

Fenton joined the Sportsknot Interview Podcast this week and he wasted no time getting involved. The Raiders, the Colts, DJ Moore in Buffalo – he had it all under his belt. Some of them may surprise you.

The Raiders Aggression, Max Crosby Trade Fiasco

Start with the Max Crosby mess. Everyone saw the Ravens back out of that trade when the market for Trey Hendrickson softened. Fenton noticed something most people didn’t notice: the specific words used by Las Vegas when it announced it was parting ways.

“They didn’t say Max Crosby failed a physical,” he said. “They said the Ravens backed out of the trade. I thought that was telling.”

His theory? Baltimore went into free agency assuming it would cost them Myles Garrett money for Hendrickson – in the neighborhood of $40 million per year. too rich. So he turned to the Crosby trade. Then Hendrickson just…sat there. And the price fell. Suddenly Eric DeCosta is doing the math in his head and realizing he can get a comparable pass rusher and retain both first-round picks.

“This is shady business,” Fenton said. “But let’s not act like this is the first questionable business that’s been done in the National Football League.”

She thinks both teams had a good finish. Specifically for the Raiders, Crosby staying puts a proven veteran next to a quarterback who has never taken an NFL snap. That matters. So is the signing of Tyler Linderbaum, which he said is exactly what a rebuilding team with a young QB should do.

“Bad franchises fail young quarterbacks far more than bad organizations do,” Fenton said.

What are the Indianapolis Colts doing?

This brings us to Indianapolis, which apparently didn’t get that memo.

The Colts re-signed Alec Pierce to the largest free-agent receiver contract in NFL history. They guaranteed Daniel Jones $50 million. Fenton is not affected by any moves as part of the NFL free agency frenzy.

He said, “Just because you pay a guy like he’s elite, doesn’t make him elite.” Specifically on Jones, he reiterated that an Achilles injury after a good half-season does not rewrite four years of bad football in New York. “This is not a $50 million changed perspective.”

Chris Ballard’s seat should be warm, he said. Under his watch, the AFC South has been won multiple times by the Texans, Titans and Jaguars. Still waiting for Indy.

In other NFL free agency moves, Fenton liked the signing of DJ Moore and said it would have a big impact on Buffalo and Trent McDuffie in LA, which angered him. She went to Moore without hesitation, and the reason was less about Moore himself and more about the Bills’ offensive coordinator, Joe Brady.

“I like what Joe Brady does with receivers,” Fenton said. He covered his 2019 LSU offense and even talked to Justin Jefferson about it at the Super Bowl, Fenton said. The short version: Brady unlocks the passing game in ways that don’t show up on the depth chart.

Moore is not elite. Fenton said this clearly. But he’s an upgrade, he fits the scheme, and he’s paired with Josh Allen, who he calls “Superman,” the extent of that offense becomes even greater.

The second-round pick had to give up a lot. He accepted this. Then, they moved forward immediately. You are in a window. spend.

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A former NFL general manager believes the Las Vegas Raiders cannot start Fernando Mendoza right away and believes they will need to sign a veteran quarterback to lead the offense as early as 2026. And he has a specific player in mind.

Although there are a lot of rumors about which players teams will take in Round 1 of next month’s NFL Draft, one thing is certain. The Raiders will use the No. 1 overall selection on Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, and he will be their starting QB immediately. Or maybe not.

There is always a risk in thrusting a rookie signal-caller into a starting role for an NFL team. Especially one that had the worst record in the league last year. That’s why ESPN NFL expert Mike Tannenbaum believes Mendoza should begin his career as a backup and Kirk Cousins ​​should be the Raiders’ starting QB in Week 1.

“I would sign Kirk Cousins. I think he’s the ideal bridge quarterback to Fernando Mendoza,” he said on Friday Morning Edition. sports center. “We know they’ve got Tyler Linderbaum, but their offensive line gave up more sacks than any team last year. Why not go out and bring in a veteran like Kirk Cousins ​​to stabilize the position?

“Bring Mendoza on slowly. Don’t play him from day one, because, remember, quarterbacks are often ruined before they even get going.”

Why should the Raiders sign Kirk Cousins?

While Raiders fans may not be thrilled with the idea of ​​Cousins ​​being their starting QB in Week 1, Tannenbaum’s point makes a lot of sense. Mendoza is a good QB prospect. However, he is not a generational talent, and many experts believe he will not be the first or even second QB selected in next year’s draft.

Las Vegas needs to be smart with his development and do everything possible to ensure he can succeed when handed the keys to the offense. While Linderbaum will certainly make the offensive line better next season, this is still a messy group that could be a big loss for the developing QB prospect.

Cousins ​​is a far cry from the Pro Bowl-level player he used to be and was a role model himself in Atlanta. But he’s still a good player at the position and has the experience to handle the shortcomings of playing behind an average offensive line. Mendoza still needs to learn those skills. He should not achieve them in a litmus test situation during his rookie season.

Plus, the Raiders have the money to sign Cousins, and he’s looking for a chance to start this season. If it’s better than expected, great. But if he disappoints, let Mendoza take his place and have a lot more information and preparation when that moment comes.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Despite a messy situation and a failed attempt to trade him this month, a new rumor suggests Max Crosby will be a Las Vegas Raider in 2026.

Over the past few months, the once strong relationship between the Raiders and top star Max Crosby has deteriorated rapidly. It all started at the end of last season when the organization asked the fiery pass rusher to sit out the final two games of the schedule so they could unofficially try to get the No. 1 pick in next month’s NFL Draft.

The plan worked, but her relationship with the five-time Pro Bowler ended up being collateral damage. That’s why rumors swirled for weeks that he would be traded, and it became a reality last week when it was announced that Las Vegas was sending Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in a deal that will give them a pair of first-round picks.

Then, like the relationship between the Raiders and Crosby, the deal surprisingly fell apart this week when Las Vegas announced that the Ravens “withdrew” from the trade. Yet, despite returning to the silver-and-black, ESPN’s Dan Graziano claimed on Thursday morning’s edition sports center There is still a strong upside potential for trade in the coming days and weeks.

Max Crosby and the Raiders back on good terms after failed trade?

Still, on Wednesday night, a social media post from Max Crosby suggested he’s OK with staying with the Raiders in 2026. “Everything happens for a reason. Believe everything you hear and half of what you see. I’m a raider. I’m back. Run that s***,” he wrote in a post on X.

Some people believe this is his public face on the messy situation that has been the past few weeks and that he still wants to get out of Las Vegas. However, a new report indicates that the organization is in favor of the star pass rusher remaining with the same team he has played for for at least one more season.

Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio reports, “According to a league source, the Raiders are currently telling teams that defensive end Max Crosby will not be traded, after a failed attempt to send him to the Ravens for a pair of first-round picks.”

A week ago, a new report surfaced on various defensive end issues with the team, including one involving an associate of minority owner Tom Brady that has rubbed many in the organization the wrong way.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Although some interesting reports are suggesting otherwise, all signs point to the Las Vegas Raiders making Fernando Mendoza the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After all, they already moved on before the start of last year by sending Geno Smith to the New York Jets.

With Aidan O’Connell the only quarterback left on the Raiders roster, Las Vegas has no choice but to add another arm to the roster this offseason. Chances are, he’ll be a veteran who can help Mendoza navigate the ups and downs of his first season.

A potential guru came forward on Wednesday. according to athleticAccording to NFL insider Diana Russini, Raiders fans should “expect” the team to “show interest” in signing the recently released Kirk Cousins ​​to help Mendoza.

While Cousins ​​certainly wants to play in 2026 rather than play a backup role, he would be an ideal fit for the Raiders. The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback has mastered the art of preparing for his opponents, whether it’s adjusting his body or diving into individual matchups and film to break down coverages. Cousins ​​could be a huge asset for the young QB.

Additionally, if he is pressed into action, Cousins ​​could still help swing some games in the Raiders’ favor. The 37-year-old still led the Falcons to a 5-3 record last season, keeping them in the playoff race for as long as he could. If asked to do the same in Las Vegas, both parties need to be confident he is the right person for the job.

RELATED: NFL Insider updates Raiders Max Crosby trade price after failed physical

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The Las Vegas Raiders thought their business was done. It was already tough enough, having to part with possibly their best player by trading Max Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens. Of course, getting two first-round picks (including No. 14 overall) made the deal easier.

Still, now that the Ravens have cooled off and backed out of the deal after Crosby failed his physical, the Raiders are in a tough spot. Now everyone knows they tried to trade Crosby. Not only that, Crosby’s value has arguably decreased after failing the medical test.

Nevertheless, according to athleticAccording to NFL insider Diana Russini, the Raiders are not backing down from their original asking price. They still want two first-round picks to trade Crosby.

Meanwhile, many were skeptical of Crosby getting two first-round picks. After failing the physical, their chances of doing so seem even slimmer.

After all, free agency has been going on for three days. Teams have already adjusted their budgets after chasing top talents. Some teams that might have been targeting a Crosby trade have already made other plans, such as the Cowboys trading for Rashaan Gary, giving the Raiders fewer options to negotiate.

Still, if Las Vegas isn’t willing to trade Crosby, they should have no trouble getting at least a first-round pick in return. It remains to be seen whether they can get more.

RELATED: Dallas Cowboys discuss trade for Pittsburgh Steelers Pro Bowler

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NFL free agency has a tendency to shatter expectations. Talented players hit the open market, and teams with needs are eager to fill them, no matter the cost.

The Las Vegas Raiders are beginning a new era with a first-year head coach in Clint Kubiak. Soon, they are expected to make Fernando Mendoza the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Now, they are giving their offense a huge boost.

according to athleticDiana Russini, signing the Raiders center Tyler Linderbaum. The 25-year-old was a strong candidate to be re-signed by the Ravens, but the three-time Pro Bowler was highly coveted, with the Browns and Commanders also registering interest.

However, it was the Raiders who landed one of the NFL’s top free agents by signing Linderbaum to a record-setting contract for a center. He is being signed to a three-year, $81 million contract. The NFL’s second-highest paid center is now two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler Creed Humphrey, who is averaging $18 million per season.

Still, the Raiders are getting an excellent player in Linderbaum who may still have more room for development. Center is also an extremely important position in Coach Kubiak’s attack.

Center is an extremely important position in Clint Kubiak’s offense, and Tyler Linderbaum fits his scheme in almost every way. Depending on how the system works, having Linderbaum be (potentially) huge for Fernando Mendoza.

That’s a lot of money. But a logical overpayment. https://t.co/oJOcl5x2sp

– Albert Breyer (@albertbreyer) 9 March 2026

Linderbaum is not only effective, but he’s also durable, having missed just two games since becoming the 25th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Now he will be a big part of the Raiders’ future, and help create a pocket for Mendoza for years to come.

RELATED: Why the Raiders were right to trade Max Crosby for two first-round picks

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After several weeks of rumors, Max Crosby’s memorable tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders has officially ended. On Friday night, it was revealed that the Baltimore Ravens had won the sweepstakes for the five-time Pro Bowler and were sending their first-round pick to Las Vegas next month (14th overall) and their first in 2027.

According to Over the Cap, not only do the Raiders now have 11 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they have moved up to No. 1 in cap space with $121.7 million. Las Vegas has a lot of holes to fill this offseason, but now they have the means to do so and add some big-name talent to the roster for new head coach Clint Kubiak.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at 10 impact players the Las Vegas Raiders could target on the free agent and trade block soon.

trey hendrickson

While the Raiders got a great return in the deal for Crosby, they still lost one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. They need to fill that void if they hope to have any chance of being competitive in 2026. Since they have the most cap space in the league, Cincinnati Bengals star Trey Hendrickson should be an option.

There is certainly risk in the deal since he is three years older than Crosby. However, if he’s willing to sign a shorter deal (three years) for a higher annual average, it would make sense because they would absolutely replace Crosby, but they also have two first-rounders that they didn’t have a week ago.

mike evans

With the Raiders expected to select Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick in April and start him in Week 1, the rookie will need some meaningful weapons to get used to. One of the best targets available in free agency this offseason is Tampa Bay Buccaneers great Mike Evans.

While the 32-year-old is showing clear signs of age-related decline, he is a year removed from consecutive trips to the Pro Bowl. Acquiring a reliable veteran target is essential for Las Vegas this offseason.

tyler linderbaum

The Raiders offensive line has been a mess for years. After taking Mendoza with the No. 1 pick, it’s very possible to use the extra pick at 14 on an offensive lineman. But that shouldn’t be where the team’s line rebuild ends.

Three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum is the best available on the free agent market this offseason and he needs to be a top target for the team. Making Mendoza a strong leader on the O-line is another important element that will help this rookie make a big impact in his first season.

Alvin Kamara

The Raiders will hope that 2025 first-rounder Ashton Jeanty has a better sophomore season for the team. However, pairing him with a good experienced player next season wouldn’t be a bad idea. That’s why New Orleans Saints great Alvin Kamara may be on Las Vegas’ radar.

Is he the player who went to the Pro Bowl in his first five seasons? No. But he’s still a difference maker, especially with his pass catching skills. He’s in the final year of his contract, Mendoza needs more weapons, and the Kamara-Ginty combo could be very bad for a year.

Alec Pierce

Indianapolis Colts star Alec Pierce has quietly developed into a very good receiver in his first four seasons in the league. In 2025, he posted 1,003 yards, six touchdowns and an absurd 21.3 yards per catch average on just 47 receptions. At just 25 years old, he could be the hidden gem of this year’s free agent market.

The Raiders may have to overpay to get him, but Pierce has serious upside, and he could form a great combo with Mendoza for the next five years.

jaylen waddle

The Miami Dolphins have been in sell-off mode for the past few weeks. While there is talk that they would like to keep Jaylen Waddle, the Raiders should consider inquiring about a trade. Giving up one of the first rounders they got in the Crosby trade would be a big buck, but it’s a return Miami will definitely consider.

Although he hasn’t been a Pro Bowler, he has three 1,000+ yard seasons on his resume, he’s only 27 years old, and is locked in at a fair amount of money until 2028. Waddle will be needed for legitimate WR1 Mendoza.

trent williams

San Francisco 49ers veteran Trent Williams and the team have reached a standoff over his 2026 contract. They want him to take a pay cut, and he has no interest despite going to the Pro Bowl 12 times for the franchise. Release or trade is possible.

At 37 years old, he doesn’t have many miles left on his tires. But even after becoming a Pro Bowler again in 2025, he still has a lot of work left to do. Getting Mendoza an elite offensive tackle, even if just for a year or two, would be a huge benefit to the young man’s development.

alonte taylor

Another player who should be on the Raiders’ radar is former Saints second-round pick Alonte Taylor. The 27-year-old was a starter the past three seasons and showed his versatility covering both outside and slot receivers. He should come at a reasonable rate and is at his peak. Getting better in the secondary, especially if they can’t adequately fill the Crosby void, is a need for Las Vegas this offseason.

Marvin Harrison Jr.

Arizona Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., a first-round pick, has disappointed in his first two seasons in the league after being the fourth overall selection in the 2024 draft. This may simply be a system of how messed up the Cards’ offense was at that time. Still, the 6-foot-3, 220-pounder still has a lot of untapped potential.

With Arizona trying to turn things around, they may be willing to move Harrison Jr. for a second and third rounder in 2026 and beyond. Although that price would be risky, he is still under contract for two more years at a reasonable rate. If offensive coordinator Andrew Zanocco can utilize his potential, he could be a steal.

tyreek hill

Another interesting option for the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason is eight-time Pro Bowler Tyreek Hill. There is no doubt that the future Hall of Famer can make a big impact for the team in 2026. But he’s coming off a torn ACL, so it’s unclear how much the injury will diminish his elite athletic ability. Especially at the age of 32. However, this means he could come in at a reasonable rate and would be worth a short-term deal.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders are finalizing a blockbuster trade with EDGE rusher Max Crosby. As ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports, the Ravens are sending the 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a 2027 first-round pick to the Raiders for Crosby. It’s a surprising move that gives Baltimore an alpha on the defensive line who is capable of sacking the quarterback at a high level.

Below, we’ll break down the winners and losers of the Crosby trade between the Raiders and Ravens.

Winner: Baltimore Ravens, Max Crosby

The Ravens are undoubtedly the biggest winners of the Crosby trade with the Raiders. The 28-year-old pass rusher recorded 10 sacks and one interception despite missing two games during the 2025-26 NFL season. The Ravens were in desperate need of a pass rusher after trading Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers at the trade deadline. Crosby is now the center of a Super Bowl-contending team’s defense.

Loser: Las Vegas Raiders defense

The Raiders’ defense is the biggest loser, as losing Crosby would be detrimental to the team. Crosby was the heart and soul of the Las Vegas defense, and it will be difficult to replicate his success on the football field. The Raiders have two first-round picks to help find a replacement, but it will be difficult to bounce back from this trade next season.

Winner: Ravens head coach Jesse Minter

Ravens head coach Jesse Minter will be calling defensive plays for the team, and he’s feeling pretty good right now. Baltimore trading for Crosby would give the team an EDGE rusher who can sack the quarterback 10 or more times while moving forward. This allows Minter to be more creative in his defensive schemes and playcalling, increasing the efficiency of the Ravens’ defense.

Loser: Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys battled Baltimore for Crosby but were unsuccessful. Dallas made a big move for the former Raider, but the trade fell through, presumably because it was unwilling to give up two first-round picks. While the Cowboys did not feel comfortable passing much forward, defensive players like Crosby are not often available.

Winner: Raiders Front Office

Losing Crosby would hurt the Raiders defense and the team as a whole; However, this is a huge return. The 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft gives Las Vegas the opportunity to either select an elite EDGE prospect or fill another need. The first-round pick in 2027 would also give the Raiders more ammo to surround their potential next quarterback, Fernando Mendoza. Two first-round picks are a great return, and the Las Vegas front office did a good job.

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

The Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders are finalizing a blockbuster trade with EDGE rusher Max Crosby. As ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports, the Ravens are sending the 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a 2027 first-round pick to the Raiders for Crosby. It’s a surprising move that gives Baltimore an alpha on the defensive line who is capable of sacking the quarterback at a high level.

Below, we’ll break down the winners and losers of the Crosby trade between the Raiders and Ravens!

Winner: Baltimore Ravens, Max Crosby

The Ravens are undoubtedly the biggest winners of the Crosby trade with the Raiders. The 28-year-old pass rusher recorded 10 sacks and one interception despite missing two games during the 2025-26 NFL season. The Ravens were in desperate need of a pass rusher after trading Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers at the trade deadline. Crosby is now the center of a Super Bowl-contending team’s defense.

Loser: Las Vegas Raiders defense

The Raiders’ defense is the biggest loser, as losing Crosby would be detrimental to the team. Crosby was the heart and soul of the Las Vegas defense, and it will be difficult to replicate his success on the football field. The Raiders have two first-round picks to help find a replacement, but it will be difficult to bounce back from this trade next season.

Winner: Ravens head coach Jesse Minter

Ravens head coach Jesse Minter will be calling defensive plays for the team, and he’s feeling pretty good right now. Baltimore trading for Crosby would give the team an EDGE rusher who can sack the quarterback 10 or more times while moving forward. This allows Minter to be more creative in his defensive schemes and playcalling, increasing the efficiency of the Ravens’ defense.

Loser: Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys battled Baltimore for Crosby but were unsuccessful. Dallas made a big move for the former Raider, but the trade fell through, presumably because it was unwilling to give up two first-round picks. While the Cowboys did not feel comfortable passing much forward, defensive players like Crosby are not often available.

Winner: Raiders Front Office

Losing Crosby would hurt the Raiders defense and the team as a whole; However, this is a huge return. The 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft gives Las Vegas the opportunity to either select an elite EDGE prospect or fill another need. The first-round pick in 2027 would also give the Raiders more ammo to surround their potential next quarterback, Fernando Mendoza. Two first-round picks are a great return, and the Las Vegas front office did a good job.

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

A wild new report details the messy situation inside the Las Vegas Raiders that has alienated top star Max Crosby, including a teammate of Tom Brady who has few fans in the organization.

One of the biggest stories in the NFL as we approach the start of the new league year is the future of Raiders star pass rusher Max Crosby. During a rough stretch in franchise history, the seven-year veteran has been one of the few bright spots as he has earned Pro Bowl honors each of the last five seasons.

Unfortunately for the 28-year-old, his efforts have mostly gone in vain as the Raiders have reached the playoffs only once during his tenure. Additionally, he has had five different head coaches, and it could be six if he remains with the organization in 2026. It’s understandable why Crosby would be frustrated and want out.

Raiders aren’t consulting Crosby during trade talks

However, Crosby has remained loyal to Raiders fans despite consecutive losses. But the team threw him into the deep end when he requested that he miss the final two games of the season as they vie for the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft. Which he did. Nevertheless, this caused a rift between the team and Crosby and it was expected that he would soon be traded. Or maybe not.

According to a new report from Michael Silver of The Athletic, the Raiders have made the process of moving the fan-favorite more “messy” than necessary despite overwhelming interest.

“The Raiders are not assuring him that he will accept the best offer he gets or asking him for input on where he would like to play,” writes Silver. “Theoretically, this saga could extend to the draft – or even the season.

“If that happens, it would continue a pattern of dysfunction that has plagued the Silver and Black throughout Crosby’s tenure, and which no sane superstar would ever welcome.”

Tom Brady’s servant is causing trouble at the Raiders facility

However, an interesting piece of information in Silver’s report reveals another reason why Crosby has soured on the organization: minority owner Tom Brady’s top in-house minion, Alex Guerrero. The man with the title of “Wellness Coordinator” has surprising influence in the Raiders offices and has reportedly used his unusual power to rub many people in the organization the wrong way.

“Guerrero, who regularly attends practices and meetings, is claimed to have significant organizational power, informing players of impending transactions and even signaling to staff members who do not follow his instructions that their jobs may be in jeopardy,” Silver’s report said.

“Guerrero is believed to have direct access to Brady, who lives in Florida and serves as Fox’s lead NFL analyst, limiting his in-person appearances. Suffice it to say, trust issues are rampant at the Raiders’ training facility in Henderson, Nev.”

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

There has been a widespread belief, almost from the moment they amassed the worst record in the league, that the Las Vegas Raiders are set to make Fernando Mendoza the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. Still, that hasn’t been carved in stone yet.

The Raiders had a large contingent in pursuit of Mendoza, including the Heisman-winner’s victory at the College Football National Championship. However, perhaps the Raiders aren’t 100% sold on Mendoza being their next franchise QB.

According to the , the franchise will always consider trade offers for the top selection in the draft.

“I learned a long time ago – always listen,” Spytek said. “I’m always listening. I watched him a few times this season, evaluating him. We’re not allowed to talk to him, so it’s as close as I get to standing on the sidelines before a game.”

If the Raiders are “always listening,” we’d assume that includes offers for Maxx Crosby, despite their best efforts to say they want him back. Whether Crosby feels the same way remains to be seen, but he has tried to convey through back-channels that he would like to play elsewhere.

Still, if the Raiders are actually listening to offers instead of picking and choosing Mendoza, it opens the door to a potential blockbuster offer, just like the Rams did in 2016 when they traded up to take Jared Goff.

RELATED: Aidan Hutchinson discusses ‘dream’ of Detroit Lions trading for Max Crosby

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Early in the NFL offseason, the Miami Dolphins made a lot of noise after firing head coach Mike McDaniels, replacing him with former Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, and conducting a recent roster breakdown to free up cap space for free agency.

Their decision to waive star receiver Tyreek Hill garnered a lot of attention, but a new report claims they are on the verge of moving on from another key member of their roster. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, “The Dolphins have had trade talks with teams regarding five-time Pro Bowl S Minkah Fitzpatrick.”

Miami traded Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers a year ago to acquire a 2018 first-round pick. However, they would clearly like to move on from the $15 million the 29-year-old will make in 2026.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at five teams that should target a star safety, including the Las Vegas Raiders.

cincinnati bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals’ defense was a mess this offseason and is close to losing top star Trey Hendrickson. They will certainly make some notable additions on that side of the ball through the NFL Draft. However, they still need meaningful veterans who can lead those youngsters and make plays on the field. Targeting a Fitzpatrick trade could be on Cincy’s radar this offseason if they can free up more cap space.

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears could lose both Jaquan Brisker and Kevin Byard in NFL free agency this spring. If that worst-case scenario happened, or if they only lost one, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they looked at a Fitzpatrick trade. It seems like Chicago is a few touches away from becoming a serious Super Bowl contender in 2026. The five-time Pro Bowler could be one of those pieces.

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders defense was very poor last season. That’s why improving their pass rush will be a top priority this offseason. However, achieving that kind of high-value-add is not easy. Since they struggled to prevent big plays last season, it makes sense to target proven talent in the secondary as well. Fitzpatrick is one of the most versatile safeties in the game and could be a useful weapon for head coach Dan Quinn.

las vegas raiders

Even with Max Crosby on the field, the Las Vegas Raiders defense struggled last season. After the end of 3-14 they need help in many places. They also need more proven veterans on both sides of the ball who can make an immediate impact. Because Fitzpatrick can bring so much to the defense, and since Las Vegas will have a lot of cap space available, they should consider a trade for the Dolphins’ safety.

tennessee titans

2025 was a difficult year for the Tennessee Titans and finished with a disappointing 3-14 record. A major reason for this was that the defense was the worst in the NFL. They need to add some big-name talent to the unit and will have a bunch of cap space to do so this offseason. The duo of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Amani Hooker could give Tennessee one of the best safety duos in the game next season.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Las Vegas Raiders have been searching for a new franchise quarterback for a long time. Trading for former Pro Bowl QB Geno Smith last offseason backfired. The Raiders now have the No. 1 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, and many believe they are set to select Heisman-winning CFP national champion Fernando Mendoza from Indiana.

However, others do not believe it is a good idea. Some think the Raiders would be better off trading the No. 1 pick for a collection of assets.

Specifically, Fox Sports’ Danny Parkins believes the Raiders would be much better off trading the top pick in April’s NFL Draft.

“Given how many holes the Raiders have, and looking at the comps for Mendoza, it seems like this is a Jared Goff type, who is a little bit quicker with a little bit of a bad arm … who might miss.”

Absolutely. All draft picks can be missed, even the seemingly ‘sure things’ that come up every few years. Still, what’s the alternative in Las Vegas? Running it back with Geno Smith? Trying to bring in someone like Tua Tagovailoa or Kyler Murray?

Who’s to say those reclamation projects are even going on in Vegas? Mendoza would be their least expensive option, and has the highest ceiling, but yes, like any player, there are risks involved. It’s up to the attackers to decide if the risks are worth the potential payoff.

RELATED: Max Crosby’s praise for Caleb Williams sparks NFL rumor

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Max Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders are coming off another challenging season in which they set their franchise record for most losses in a season with 14. The Raiders have since made several changes, most notably firing Pete Carroll and hiring Clint Kubiak as their head coach.

Now that the Raiders’ brand-new coaching staff is in place, it’s time to address the elephant in the room: Crosby’s future with the team. He is under contract with Las Vegas through the 2029 season, but some believe the five-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher is tired of being part of a losing effort.

Others doubt the Raiders would even consider trading their best defenseman. Recently, ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Raiders don’t actually want to trade Crosby. But if they do consider offers, it would involve a trade package like Micah Parsons, two first-round picks and a player.

“I was told the Raiders didn’t want to trade him and even if they considered it, it would have to take a Micah Parsons-type package,” Schefter said. “That’s what I was told. Do I think they’re getting two players and one player? No. Do I think they’ll want to trade him? No. Do I think he’ll be traded? … It’ll change by the week, but it’s definitely possible.”

Crosby is already 28 years old. Meanwhile, Parsons was only 26 years old at the time of his trade to the Cowboys. Crosby has only 4.5 more sacks than Parsons in his career, and has played two more seasons. In other words, Parsons was the more attractive trade chip.

In other words, it may be difficult for the Raiders to get their reported asking price, but if they are willing to drop the price, a deal could be done. Still, based on his initial request, the Raiders likely won’t trade their prized pass-rusher for anything less than a first-round selection.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders All-Pro weighs decision to request trade

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

一份新報告揭示了感興趣的球隊需要採取什麼措施才能在休賽期交易中將馬克克斯·克羅斯比從拉斯維加斯突襲者隊手中挖走。

克羅斯比是突襲者隊在球隊歷史上非常黑暗的時期可以信賴的少數幾個偉大的發展故事之一。這位衝傳手在 2019 年 NFL 選秀大會上被喬恩·格魯登 (Jon Gruden) 的球隊以第四輪新秀選中後，立即以 10 次擒殺的新秀賽季產生了影響力。

在接下來的六年裡，克羅斯比已經成長為球隊最偉大的衝傳手之一，目前在他們的歷史榜單上排名第三。然而，在他為球隊效力的七年裡，克羅斯比只取得了一個勝利的賽季。近年來球隊的坎坷和不斷的主教練更換無疑讓這位 28 歲的球員感到疲憊不堪。

然而，儘管關於被交易的猜測不斷，麥克斯·克羅斯比仍然堅持留在拉斯維加斯。但在 2025 賽季末，情況發生了巨大的轉變，突襲者隊要求他缺席最後兩場比賽，以便他們能夠一路艱難地獲得第一順位。他們最終做到了。但據報導，這一策略使他對球隊的感情惡化，現在看來很有可能進行交易。

週六，《The Athletic》的黛安娜·魯西尼 (Dianna Russini) 進一步證實了這一說法，她聲稱自己“越來越懷疑他是否會在下賽季為突襲者隊新任主教練克林特·庫比亞克效力”。

LV Raiders 希望在 Maxx Crosby 交易中獲得兩名首輪選秀權

那麼，如果克羅斯比確實在這個休賽期被交易，LV突襲者隊會尋求什麼回報呢？魯西尼也對此進行了更新。

“克羅斯比仍在合同期內，但聯盟圈內有一種強烈的感覺，儘管突襲者隊可能會開出高價（想想像米卡·帕森斯那樣的合同），但他可能會在那裡被收購，”她寫道。 “如果克羅斯比真的想離開，拉斯維加斯預計不會試圖讓他留下來。”

在上賽季之前將帕森斯送到綠灣包裝工隊的交易中，達拉斯牛仔隊獲得了 2026 年和 2027 年的首輪選秀權，以及防守截鋒肯尼·克拉克。

Jason Burgos 於 2017 年獲得新聞學學位後，擔任多個網站的撰稿人，其中包括 MMA Sucka … 關於 Jason Burgos 的更多信息

Arc Raiders 目前已成為全球最受歡迎的視頻遊戲之一，許多人都在 Topside 中尋找粘液。一些名人已經開始直播他們的比賽經歷，比如辛辛那提猛虎隊外接手賈馬爾·蔡斯 (Ja'Marr Chase)。看來邁卡·帕森斯現在也想加入其中。然而，他對比賽的看法讓所有人都嘲笑他。

這位綠灣包裝工隊球星在 X（以前稱為 Twitter）上跳來跳去，抱怨他根本沒有足夠的時間來磨練比賽。然後，他可能是開玩笑地聲稱，他願意向某人支付 500 美元，讓他在他的帳戶上玩 100 小時的遊戲。

“兄弟，我不可能花100個小時在《Arc Raiders》上磨！我拿了500美元請人幫我磨。”

這一具體評論引起了不同的反應。一些人指出薪水太少了，而另一些人似乎非常願意接受邁卡·帕森斯的提議。

“5 美元/小時？關於你的在線血汗工廠的噁心推文，兄弟，”一位人士說道。

這個人說，“我明白了，伙計，打私信吧。”

帕森斯在 X 上發表的下一篇文章給他帶來了很多負面關注。這位 26 歲的邊緣衝鋒者抱怨說，他不喜歡 Arc Raiders 無法購買遊戲內貨幣或福利。電子遊戲愛好者對這位五屆職業保齡球手進行了猛烈抨擊，指出他對無法付費獲勝感到沮喪。

“這麼說，贏了就不用花錢，而且每個人都在一個公平的競爭環境中？真遺憾，”一位用戶說道。

另一個人嘲笑道，“‘缺點是我無法支付遊戲費用’lmao。”

“玩遊戲吧，你這個混蛋。Ronnie 2k 不是來讓你免費獲得 99 分的，”另一個人說道。

這位用戶解釋道，“我愛你，Micah，但這就是 Arc 的樂趣和特別之處。如果你不經歷實際玩遊戲的過程，它就不會那麼有趣。”

“兄弟，不付費獲勝並不是一個缺點。在我看來，每場比賽並不一定都是一場艱苦的比賽。只要你能玩，就玩，邊玩邊享受，”一位人士建議道。

一位粉絲指出：“兄弟，你現在只有時間了。”

也許一段時間後，邁卡·帕森斯會喜歡玩沒有付費獲勝模式的《Arc Raiders》。也許他會開始自己的直播，這樣球迷們就可以在休賽期欣賞他玩視頻遊戲而不是踢足球。

湯姆·布雷迪知道如何才能獲勝，現在他正努力在罪惡之城取得成功。

這位七屆超級碗冠軍擁有拉斯維加斯突襲者隊的少數股權，他在這支表現不佳的 NFL 球隊中的工作任務艱鉅。

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自2003年1月在奧克蘭比賽以來，銀黑隊就沒有贏過一場季后賽比賽，並且在本賽季結束時成為聯盟中最差的球隊之一。

拉斯維加斯以3勝14負的戰績鎖定了2026年NFL選秀的狀元秀，並獲得了重置的機會。

經驗豐富的主教練皮特·卡羅爾（Pete Carroll）就是其中之一，他在罪惡之城的經歷結束了，並在“黑色星期一”被解僱——常規賽結束後不到 24 小時。

在 1 月 5 日宣布這一消息的聲明中，突襲者隊老闆馬克·戴維斯表示，布雷迪將在球隊中扮演更重要的角色，並將成為尋找卡羅爾替代者的關鍵人物。

近兩週過去了，這位傳奇四分衛準確地透露了他希望新候選人能為維加斯帶來什麼。

湯姆·布雷迪 (Tom Brady) 提供突襲者 HC 搜索更新

“我認為現在每支球隊都在經歷自己的流程，試圖找出最適合他們的方式，”布雷迪在周四發表的採訪中告訴美聯社。

“我們希望在拉斯維加斯帶來一場胜利。這是球迷們應得的，而且已經等了很長時間了。

“所以，你必須解決很多難題，但我當然非常興奮，我們將使事情朝著正確的方向發展。”