The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2026 NFL Draft started with the number one overall pick and all the power. It became clear early on who they were pursuing to become their hopeful day one starter at quarterback. After a trade sent their 2025 starter, Geno Smith, to the Jets. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza ended his college career not only as a national champion but also a Heisman Trophy winner, and became the obvious choice for the top pick.
In an offseason that drew in the noise with a trade involving Max Crosby to the Ravens, the Raiders eventually were able to secure the stout defensive end after some mishaps in the trade process. Still needing to address points of their defense, the draft was a place to do just that. Here is a look at the 2026 draft class for the Las Vegas Raiders.
Round 1, Pick 1: Fernando Mendoza, Quarterback, Indiana
Mendoza is what can be described as an ideal NFL-ready quarterback coming out of college. Throwing for 41 touchdowns to only six interceptions in 2025, he led his team to a national championship with a 16-0 overall season record. He’s pro-ready for many reasons; Mendoza is able to fit the ball in tight windows, he’s strong in leading receivers to open grass, and possesses next-level arm talent. Displaying such a natural feel at the position has allowed him to see the game at a different speed, never showing an ounce of doubt, which is key to success in the NFL.
Filling a position that was a big need for the Raiders will be a process in itself, but they have found their guy for the job. Grabbing the attention of his teammates and the locker room will be Mendoza’s first step, and he’s shown the ability to do that throughout his final college season. Surrounding the young quarterback with dependable targets will be key, as well as building the offensive line to protect him in the pocket. Overall, this was a home run pick for the Raiders for the foreseeable future.
Round 2, Pick 38: Treydan Stukes, Safety, Arizona
Historically, it has been a league-wide understanding that the Raiders are lacking in secondary depth. Recording only eight interceptions in 2025, it did not help that injuries plagued the secondary. Now, they get some much-needed help and depth in the safety room with Tyran Stukes. He proved himself to be a dependable open-field tackler for Arizona, recording 52 total tackles and four interceptions in 10 games. The Raiders brought in Taron Johnson this offseason, but with the speed of Stukes, the nickleback position may have his name all over it.
The ability to play fast and under control will be an emphasis for the young rookie, given his strong chance for a week one start. Adding a sense of security in open field situations is a huge plus and will come up quickly, as this defense is known to give up big plays.
Round 3, Pick 67: Keyron Crawford, Edge, Auburn
This was an ideal pick for Las Vegas in terms of getting their breadwinner, Max Crosby, help on the other edge. While Crosby has been seen to carry the defensive line by himself when needed in moments, that’s not a sustainable way to operate in the long run. Taking a chance with Keyron Crawford with their first pick of the third round provides depth for a defense that needs it. Crawford recorded only five sacks last season at Auburn, but had the 15th-best pressure rate in the FBS. His biggest area for improvement in his ability to shed blockers. Learning the position from a dominant player like Crosby is a blessing, yet it’s still up to Crawford to grasp the knowledge and apply it.
The signing of Kwity Payne in the off-season means Crawford won’t need to start right away. He may get the chance, though, since Payne ranked last in the NFL in pass rush win rate last year.
Round 3, Pick 91: Trey Zuhn, Center, Texas A&M
The Raiders are thinking Trey Zuhn can play guard right off the bat. Recently signing Tyler Linderbaum in free agency, that center position seems to be all packed up and safe. Taking Mendonza with the first pick was the first step to a positive reformation for Las Vegas; the next was rounding out the offensive line. If they want the true capabilities of Mendoza to be displayed, Zuhn is a helpful factor in that equation. With names like Jackson Powers-Johnson, Spencer Buford, and Antonio Mafi, it will be interesting to see who can stay afloat and gain a roster spot.
Zuhn has experience, being a four-year starter with the Aggies. Securing a first-team All-SEC selection and winning the conference’s Jacobs Blocking Trophy, the rookie had a decorated career by all means. Although he spent most of his time at center, his ability to move his feet when needed is a sign that he can play multiple positions on the interior.
Round 4, Pick 101: Jermod McCoy, Cornerback, Tennessee
Unlike an earlier pick in Stukes, McCoy will have a harder path to a starting position. Not due to lack of skill, but because of missing the 2025 season with an ACL fear. With an already injury-riddled secondary, the Raiders bringing in a draft pick with similar issues seems to leave a question mark. He’s had a season to heal, and if his rehab is on track, he could be in the conversation as a starter.
The last action seen from McCoy was in 2024, where he led Tennessee with 13 pass deflections and four interceptions. When healthy, he is able to play within his 6-foot and 188-pound frame, also showcasing strong reaction skills out of breaks.
Round 4, Pick 122: Mike Washington Jr., Running Back, Arkansas
In 2025, the Raiders offense leaned and relied on rookie Ashton Jeanty. Despite some highlight-reel plays, he still struggled due to a lack of help from the front five. He recorded 975 rushing yards, 346 receiving yards, and 10 total touchdowns. Mike Washington gives the team a dependable back who can come in when a break or switch in personnel is needed. He is the ideal bruiser behind Jeanty, while also providing some help in the passing game.
In a running back room looking for some more depth behind their previous first-round pick, the Raiders may have found their answer in the fourth round. Washington offers a bigger frame and more physicality in between tackles, an ideal third-down back in positions needing just a few yards. Being able to keep Jeanty as fresh as possible is key, and Las Vegas may have hit the late-round jackpot in Washington.
Round 5, Pick 150: Dalton Johnson, Safety, Arizona
Addressing secondary depth again, the Raiders set their eyes on another impact player from Arizona. Taking Dalton Johnson with their first pick in round five was a smart choice, given that he will be in the mix at the safety/nickel position. With a big need for added depth, more bodies can never be a bad thing. Playing fast and aggressively on the defensive side seems to be the game plan this season. With this pick, they found someone who fits right into that scheme.
Johnson is a player who racked up a career total of 285 tackles and lived for the chance to run for the Wildcats. Not only does he play strong within a 5-foot-10 and 192-pound frame, but he’s also shown speed with a 4.41-second 40-yard dash at the combine. He won’t be a guy to rely on in deep downfield coverage, but he can be a benefit in short and intermediate routes.
Round 5, Pick 175: Hezekiah Masses, Cornerback, CAL
The Raiders grab another corner in round five, but this one played in 2025. Not stressing enough the necessity for players who will be able to not only perform but also last an entire season of play. Las Vegas headed to the Bay Area to grab a solid corner in Hezekiah Masses.
Masses is coming off a season at Cal where he led the nation in passes defended with 18. Not only is he effective when placed into man coverage, but he is a ballhawk as well, with five interceptions. His high-energy play can become infectious in a position room that needs a spark this season. Masses will need to learn the perfect mix of playing with confidence while staying mentally in tune with the game. He lacks a bit in run game assistance on the edge but willing to put his body on the line when needed.
Round 6, Pick 195: Malik Benson, Wide Receiver, Oregon
In a late round sleeper pick, the Raiders were able to snag what could be a diamond in the rough out of Oregon. Coming into the 2026 season, the current receivers on the roster don’t pop out and scream to the next level. Although they do have Jack Bech, Jalen Nailor, Tre Tucker, the newest addition, Malik Benson, is solid. With the ability to take the top off the defense, Benson can use a solid camp to develop his capabilities.
Speed is the word that comes to mind when thinking of an athlete like Benson, with his 4.37-second 40-yard dash to show for it. His speed covers up for a lack of polish in route-running, and he is a threat anywhere he lines up. Last season for Oregon, Benson totaled 43 receptions for 719 yards and six touchdowns. He’ll get an opportunity in Las Vegas, but there are still questions about his ability at the NFL level.
Round 7, Pick 229: Brandon Cleveland, Defensive Tackle, NC State
With their final pick in the 2026 draft, the Raiders decided to hit again on the need for additional defensive linemen. Brandon Cleveland won’t provide much help in week one, but with the right development, he can be a long-term depth piece.
Cleveland is not one who will be the prized defensive stopper on a regular basis, often finding himself in trouble fighting off the hands of more skilled offensive linemen. He’s shown the ability to fit gaps with his 6-foot-3 and 307-pound size, and eagerness to bring the ballcarrier down once he gets his hands on them. Joining a group that needs the numbers, he will have to find his way throughout camp. With no guarantee he makes any noise throughout the summer, stacking the days will be helpful in the long run.
Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft Grade: C+
The Raiders got exactly who they wanted for the future with the first pick in the draft, taking Fernando Mendonza. Addressing their need for a quarterback came early, and it seems to be the right fit thus far, though he still needs reps to get acquainted with this level of play. This was a draft where Las Vegas addressed the holes in their roster, grabbing some solid players in late rounds. Getting Jeanty some relief with Washington was big, banking on him to provide the physicality on short downs as needed. Also, adding speed to the outside of their offense and someone who can be a great option for Mendonza will pay dividends. Overall, they did well in the 2026 draft.
