Las Vegas offers a glimpse of hope for the Raiders. This year, there is optimism as new additions hint towards the end of a long rebuilding phase, potentially marking a fresh start in Sin City.
Review of Last Year
The Raiders endured a tough 2025 season with a 3-14 record, finishing last in their division. They secured the No. 1 overall pick for the draft. Nonetheless, players like Brock Bowers and Maxx Crosby showcased exceptional talent, providing some entertainment. The offense struggled, scoring a league-low 241 points. Challenges included turnovers, poor road performances, and inconsistent quarterback play. This led to a quick exit for head coach Pete Carroll.
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Fernando Mendoza and Kirk Cousins were seen at a Las Vegas Raiders workout at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nev., on June 3, 2026. (Getty Images)
Offseason Changes
To revamp the offense, Las Vegas appointed Klint Kubiak, a former offensive coordinator for the Seahawks and Vikings, as head coach. Kubiak has a track record of success which might help in overhauling the offensive line-up filled with talented players. The team drastically changed the quarterback roster. They signed Kirk Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, and drafted Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Garner Minshew exited the roster, but Cousins and Mendoza fill key roles.
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Fernando Mendoza, chosen as the No. 1 draft pick in 2026, appeared with GM John Spytek and Coach Kubiak in Henderson, Nev., on April 24, 2026. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Projected Roster
The offense gains a steadier presence with Cousins leading behind an improved offensive line. All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers, along with Michael Mayer and Tre Tucker, enhances offensive potential, allowing Mendoza to develop. Ashton Jeanty, with a reliable quarterback, could see more opportunities to excel.
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On the defensive side, Crosby remains key to the pass rush and has been joined by Kwity Paye. The linebacking team has added Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean. If the secondary, with Taron Johnson, withstands complex offenses, efficiency should improve.
Fernando Mendoza in action against the Houston Texans during a preseason game on Aug. 20, 2026, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Season Outlook and Betting
The Raiders are unlikely to underperform as dramatically as last year. Expecting a playoff run may be unrealistic given their tough division contenders: the Broncos, Chargers, and Chiefs. However, progress is foreseeable.
Will they surpass 5.5 wins this season? This is uncertain. Cousins’ previous performance in Atlanta was lackluster, bearing similarities to the current Raiders. Yet, Kubiak’s coaching potentially provides a steady influence.
Ashton Jeanty could have an impressive year. He had five rushing touchdowns last year, but with improved quarterback support and an offensive-minded coach, over 7.5 touchdowns is feasible. Jeanty is also likely to exceed 974.5 rushing yards, matching last year’s output on a less effective team. With frequent trailing, controlling the game pace is crucial, but Kubiak could maximize his workload.
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