Raiders Load Up on Talent in 10-Pick Draft Haul

GM John Spytek uses Las Vegas' draft capital to build roster through multiple positions of need.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:33pm

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The Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2026 NFL Draft with 10 picks, giving GM John Spytek ample opportunity to address multiple roster needs. In this seven-round mock draft, the Raiders select a franchise quarterback in Fernando Mendoza, shore up the secondary with Colton Hood, add run-stuffing defensive tackle Domonique Orange, and target offensive weapons like wide receiver Malachi Fields and running back Kaytron Allen. The team also uses later-round picks on developmental prospects like edge rusher Nadame Tucker and safety Bishop Fitzgerald.

Why it matters

With the Raiders coming off a disappointing season, this draft represents a critical juncture in the team's rebuild under new leadership. Spytek must maximize the team's 10 picks to infuse the roster with young talent across multiple positions of need, laying the foundation for long-term success in Las Vegas.

The details

The Raiders start by taking Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, addressing their glaring need at the game's most important position. In the second round, they select Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood, who can excel in press-man coverage and complement the team's existing defensive backs. Later, the Raiders target Iowa State defensive tackle Domonique Orange to shore up the interior of their defensive line. On offense, Notre Dame wide receiver Malachi Fields and Penn State running back Kaytron Allen provide size and physicality to the skill positions. The team also uses mid-to-late round picks on developmental prospects like Western Michigan edge rusher Nadame Tucker and USC safety Bishop Fitzgerald.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

John Spytek

The general manager of the Las Vegas Raiders, tasked with rebuilding the roster through the draft and free agency.

Fernando Mendoza

A quarterback from Indiana University, projected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and the Raiders' selection to be their new franchise signal-caller.

Colton Hood

A cornerback from the University of Tennessee, selected by the Raiders in the second round to bolster their secondary.

Domonique Orange

A defensive tackle from Iowa State University, chosen by the Raiders in the third round to improve the interior of their defensive line.

Malachi Fields

A wide receiver from the University of Notre Dame, picked by the Raiders in the fourth round to provide a big, physical presence on the outside.

Kaytron Allen

A running back from Penn State University, selected by the Raiders in the fourth round to complement their starting running back Ashton Jeanty.

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What they’re saying

“This draft represents a critical juncture in the team's rebuild under new leadership. Spytek must maximize the team's 10 picks to infuse the roster with young talent across multiple positions of need, laying the foundation for long-term success in Las Vegas.”

— Adam Hill, Reporter

What’s next

The Raiders will look to sign their 2026 draft class and integrate the new players into the team's offseason program as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Raiders' 10 draft picks give them the flexibility to address multiple areas of need and build a well-rounded roster. By targeting a franchise quarterback, reinforcing the secondary, and adding offensive weapons, the team is taking important steps to set up long-term success in Las Vegas.