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Raiders mock draft 2026: Spytek’s 10 picks target QB, CB, and more

Raiders mock draft 2026: Spytek’s 10 picks target QB, CB, and more

The Las Vegas Raiders hold 10 selections in the upcoming NFL draft, giving general manager John Spytek ample ammunition to reshape the roster. After a busy start to free agency, the draft offers the next major opportunity to build around new coach Klint Kubiak’s vision.

Round 1, Pick 1: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

There is little suspense here. The Raiders need a franchise quarterback, and the national champion is the clear top prospect in a thin class. This pick is all but locked in.

Round 2, Pick 36: Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

With the first-round pick spent on a quarterback, the Raiders turn to a pressing need at cornerback. Hood excels at jamming receivers at the line and has the speed to stay with them downfield. His playmaking ability fits the aggressive scheme expected from defensive coordinator Rob Leonard.

Round 3, Pick 67: Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

Orange is a run-stuffing nose tackle who eats space over the ball. While his pass-rush skills are limited, he projects as a two-down player who can help shore up the interior run defense.

Round 4, Pick 102: Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame

The Raiders need a big-bodied X-receiver, and Fields fits the bill. He lacks elite speed but wins with physicality and contested-catch ability, complementing tight end Brock Bowers and the team’s speed receivers.

Round 4, Pick 117: Kage Casey, OT, Boise State

Casey was the best lineman on the field when Ashton Jeanty set records at Boise State. He has arm-length limitations but offers production and position flexibility, possibly moving to guard. His relationship with Jeanty is a bonus.

Round 4, Pick 134: Kaytron Allen, RB, Penn State

Allen would serve as a complementary back to Jeanty, particularly effective on early downs and in short-yardage situations. Kubiak has emphasized the importance of a reliable second back to reduce wear on the starter.

Round 5, Pick 175: Nadame Tucker, Edge, Western Michigan

Tucker is a project with intriguing upside. A former basketball player who didn’t take up football until late, he flashed as a pass rusher in 2025. His smooth athleticism is evident, but he needs refinement in the run game and pass-rush technique.

Round 6, Pick 185: Bishop Fitzgerald, S, USC

Fitzgerald, a converted high school quarterback, reads offenses well and anticipates throws. However, his lack of elite athleticism and struggles in run support may cause him to slide. He needs development but offers instincts in coverage.

Round 6, Pick 208: Parker Brailsford, C, Alabama

Brailsford is an excellent scheme fit with high football IQ. He could back up center Tyler Linderbaum or move to guard. His biggest issue is penalties, but his intelligence makes him a valuable late-round addition.

Round 7, Pick 219: Dominic Zvada, K, Michigan

After releasing Daniel Carlson and signing Matt Gay, the Raiders may seek competition. Zvada has elite leg strength and accuracy from 50-plus yards but struggled with shorter kicks in 2025. He could push for a roster spot.

This mock draft was conducted using the Pro Football Focus simulator with the Review-Journal making selections for the Raiders and the other 31 teams simulated on low randomness.

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