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Raiders Nail 2026 NFL Draft Targets by Round
Las Vegas looks to address key needs at safety, cornerback, and offensive line in the upcoming draft.
Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:04pm
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The Raiders' offseason strategy aims to rebuild their secondary and offensive line through the 2026 NFL Draft.Las Vegas TodayThe Raiders are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Beyond that, the team has several pressing needs to address, including at safety, cornerback, and along the offensive line. This article breaks down the Raiders' ideal draft targets by round to help fill those roster gaps.
Why it matters
The Raiders are coming off a disappointing season and need to nail this draft to improve their roster and get back into playoff contention. Addressing their weaknesses at safety, cornerback, and offensive line will be crucial to their success going forward.
The details
With their two starting safeties set to hit free agency, the Raiders will likely target a safety with their second-round pick at No. 36 overall. They also have major needs at cornerback and could look to add multiple corners, including one in the third round. Upgrading the offensive line is also a priority, and the Raiders may use multiple fourth-round picks to add depth up front. At wide receiver, the team is set to rely on recent draft picks like Jack Bech, so they may wait until late in the draft to add another wideout. Linebacker is another position group that could use additional depth, especially with Nakobe Dean's injury history.
- The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.
- The Raiders' two starting safeties are set to become free agents after the 2026 season.
The players
Fernando Mendoza
The quarterback the Raiders are expected to select with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Klint Kubiak
The Raiders' defensive coordinator who believes this draft is deep with talented safeties.
Nakobe Dean
The Raiders' linebacker who has a history of injuries, creating a need for additional depth at the position.
Quay Walker
The Raiders' linebacker who, along with Nakobe Dean, represents the team's top talent at the position.
Jack Bech
A wide receiver the Raiders drafted in the second round who has yet to prove he was worth that high of a pick.
What they’re saying
“Klint Kubiak believes this draft is deep with talented safeties.”
— Klint Kubiak, Raiders Defensive Coordinator
What’s next
The Raiders will have a busy offseason leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft as they look to address their roster needs and get back into playoff contention.
The takeaway
The Raiders have several key holes to fill on their roster, and this draft will be crucial in determining their success in the 2026 season and beyond. By targeting safeties, cornerbacks, and offensive linemen, they can set themselves up for a bounce-back year and compete in the AFC West.
