The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in a familiar position – starting from the bottom with hopes of climbing back to the top following a disastrous 2025 season.
After posting a league-worst 3-14 record, the Silver and Black have earned the top selection in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft as the new league year approaches in March.
The franchise faces substantial challenges in returning to competitive form, with extensive roster needs across multiple positions.
However, Las Vegas enters this crucial offseason period with significant resources at their disposal. The organization possesses ten draft picks and boasts more than $87 million in available salary cap room, providing ample opportunity to rebuild a depleted roster and challenge for relevance in the competitive AFC West division.
Financial flexibility highlights the Raiders’ rebuilding position:
Available salary cap space for 2026: $87.2 million
Largest individual cap hit: Defensive end Maxx Crosby at $35.791 million
Notable players entering free agency include offensive guard Dylan Parham, defensive end Malcolm Koonce, center Jordan Meredith (restricted free agent), quarterback Kenny Pickett, cornerback Eric Stokes, linebacker Elandon Roberts, and kicker Daniel Carlson.
Priority positions for improvement include quarterback, offensive line, wide receiver, and defensive line.
The Raiders’ 2026 draft capital includes:
Round 1: Pick 1
Round 2: Pick 36
Round 3: Pick 67
Round 4: Picks 102, 117, and 134
Round 5: Pick 174
Round 6: Picks 180 and 183
Round 7: Pick 220
This combination of draft assets and financial resources positions the Raiders to make substantial improvements as they prepare for the NFL Scouting Combine and a potentially franchise-altering offseason.
