Raiders Weigh Options Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Las Vegas has 10 picks to address roster needs through the draft

Mar. 28, 2026 at 5:04pm

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The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft with 10 total picks. General manager John Spytek is expected to be active in trading picks, potentially moving up or down the board to target specific players. The team has several needs to address, including at safety, nose tackle, and wide receiver.

Why it matters

The Raiders are in a critical offseason as they look to rebuild and improve upon a disappointing 2025 campaign. How Spytek navigates the draft will be crucial in setting the team up for success in the coming years.

The details

The Raiders hold 10 picks in the 2026 draft, including three fourth-rounders that could be used as trade ammunition. Spytek may look to package those picks to move up and target players like Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman, who is projected as a first-round pick. Nose tackle is another key need, with options like Domonique Orange, Darrell Jackson Jr., and Tim Keenan III available in the middle rounds. At wide receiver, the team will evaluate internal options like Tre Tucker and Jack Bech before potentially addressing the position in the draft or free agency next year.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for late April.
  • The Raiders are currently holding Top 30 visits with prospects to finalize their draft board.

The players

John Spytek

The Las Vegas Raiders' general manager, who will be responsible for navigating the team's draft strategy.

Dillon Thieneman

An Oregon safety prospect projected as a first-round pick, who the Raiders may try to trade up for.

Domonique Orange

A nose tackle prospect who could be a target for the Raiders in the third round.

Darrell Jackson Jr.

Another nose tackle prospect the Raiders may consider on Day 3 of the draft.

Tim Keenan III

A nose tackle prospect who could be a Day 3 option for the Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“I'd be surprised if John Spytek didn't make at least one trade during the draft, especially with three fourth-round picks. I could see Spytek using those picks as ammunition to get back into round one or two if there's a player still on the board whom the front office likes.”

— Matt Holder, Sports Writer

“Ultimately, it may not be until day three, but I'd expect the Raiders to make at least one trade during the draft rather than stick and pick all 10 times. Whether that's moving up or down, I could see an argument in both directions.”

— Matt Holder, Sports Writer

What’s next

The Raiders will continue their pre-draft evaluation process, hosting Top 30 visits and finalizing their draft board ahead of the late April event.

The takeaway

The Raiders have a critical offseason ahead as they look to rebuild through the draft. GM John Spytek will need to navigate the team's 10 picks strategically, potentially trading up or down to target specific players who can help improve the roster for the long term.