On the surface, the Baltimore Ravens’ last-minute decision to back out of the Maxx Crosby trade might appear to be a significant setback for the Las Vegas Raiders. However, a deeper dive reveals that the Raiders are still in a robust position, especially when it comes to the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. While acquiring Crosby would have certainly accelerated their rebuilding process, the Raiders remain equipped with a strong draft arsenal that can facilitate their growth.
The Raiders’ Draft Arsenal
At the heart of the Raiders’ strategy is their draft position. Holding the No. 1 overall pick gives them the opportunity to select a franchise quarterback, which is a critical step in revitalizing their roster. Beyond that, the Raiders possess an impressive total of six picks within the first four rounds, including four selections within the top 102 spots. To round it out, they have 10 picks overall, which provides plenty of ammunition to address pressing needs across multiple positions.
In addition to the quarterback position, the Raiders have urgent needs at receiver, offensive line (guard and tackle), cornerback (and possibly safety), and defensive tackle. There’s also room for improvement across nearly all other areas on the team, meaning this draft will be pivotal in shaping their future.
Scenario A: Pick Straight Through
Top Picks:
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
- Germie Bernard, WR, Indiana
- Austin Barber, OT, Florida
- Rayshaun Benny, DT, Michigan
- Tacario Davis, CB, Washington
- Beau Stephens, IOL, Iowa
In this straightforward scenario, the Raiders take a traditional approach by using their early picks to address their most pressing needs. Assuming Mendoza is the consensus pick at No. 1, the Raiders look to build around him. Selecting Bernard at 36 provides Mendoza with a reliable target in the passing game. Bernard’s quick route-running and dependable hands position him as a safety net for a young quarterback.
As for the offensive line, Austin Barber is selected at 67. Although this pick might appear to be a slight reach, the need for skilled players in this draft is significant. Barber excels as a run blocker but has shown inconsistency in pass protection, which raises questions about his immediate starting potential.
This draft approach illustrates that the Raiders can still land players who can compete for starting roles. Mendoza and Bernard are almost guaranteed contributors, while Barber, Benny, Davis, and Stephens could vie for spots on the team.
Scenario B: Trade Back Up into the First
Top Picks:
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
- (from Chicago): Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
- Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State
- Micah Morris, IOL, Georgia
- Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
In this scenario, the Raiders make a calculated move by trading up into the first round to acquire a higher-caliber talent. They package their picks at No. 36, 102, and a future third-round selection to secure the No. 25 overall pick from the Chicago Bears. This strategic maneuver allows them to target Max Iheanachor, a tackle whose athleticism and potential make him an enticing option.
With this selection, the Raiders are more likely to land a top-tier offensive tackle. Iheanachor, while still developing, has the physical traits that suggest he could become a valuable starter sooner rather than later. This scenario potentially nets the Raiders four starters, as they prioritize immediate needs without stretching for a tackle in the third round.
Scenario C: Trade Back into Third
Top Picks:
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
- Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
- Gennings Dunker, G/T, Iowa
- (from Houston): Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
- Markel Bell, OT, Miami
Here, the Raiders opt to trade up into the third round, creating an opportunity for themselves to select multiple impactful players early. By trading 102, 117, and a future fourth-round pick, they gain the 69th pick from Houston.
In this configuration, the Raiders address several needs with Cisse, a cornerback who has the skill set to compete right away, and Dunker, who, despite being a college tackle, is expected to transition effectively to guard in the NFL. Doing so allows the Raiders to fill gaps on the offensive line while also enhancing their secondary with fast, physical players.
Conclusion
The choices ahead for the Raiders hinge on how they want to balance immediate talent with long-term potential. While the Maxx Crosby trade may have slipped through their fingers, the opportunities presented in the draft remain plentiful, offering multiple pathways to fortify their roster for the future. With strategic planning and intelligent pick management, Las Vegas can still emerge from this draft significantly improved, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.