At a Glance
- Raiders secure No. 1 overall pick for 2026 NFL Draft after Giants win Week 18
- Raiders finished 2-14 and lost 10 straight before Chiefs game
- Quarterback prospects include Heisman-winning Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore
Why it matters: The draft spot gives the Raiders a chance to address key needs, especially at quarterback, before the 2026 season.
After a Week 18 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, the New York Giants handed the Las Vegas Raiders the top draft position for 2026. Despite a 2-14 record and a ten-game losing streak, the Raiders’ pick is set regardless of their final game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Draft Position Secured
The Raiders locked up the No. 1 overall pick when the Giants defeated the Cowboys in Week 18. Their 2-14 record and 10-game slide meant the outcome of the final game against the Chiefs would not affect their draft slot.
This marks the second time the franchise has the first overall pick, the first being in 2007 when they selected LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell. Russell’s tenure was brief, ending after three seasons.
Quarterback Landscape
With a quarterback vacancy looming, the Raiders are eyeing several prospects for the 2026 draft. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, who captured the Heisman Trophy, and Oregon’s Dante Moore are leading the conversation.
- Fernando Mendoza – Heisman-winning Indiana quarterback
- Dante Moore – Oregon quarterback
Key Takeaways
- Raiders’ top pick offers a rare chance to reshape the franchise
- The team’s 2026 quarterback options include Mendoza and Moore
- The draft slot is unaffected by the final game against the Chiefs
The Raiders’ top pick offers a rare chance to reshape the franchise, especially if they land a franchise-building quarterback.
