For the Las Vegas Raiders, the mission is clear: end a 23-year playoff victory drought, the second-longest active streak in the NFL. With the 2026 NFL Draft just around the corner, the spotlight is firmly on how the Silver and Black will use their capital, starting with the coveted first overall pick. While the top selection seems destined for a franchise-altering move, the true key to breaking the slump may lie in the strategic picks made in the subsequent rounds.

With the No. 1 pick, the projection is quarterback Leo Mendoza. While no prospect is flawless, Mendoza stands apart in this class, boasting the elite arm talent, football intelligence, and leadership the Raiders desperately need under center. He represents a monumental upgrade and the clear cornerstone for the franchise's future.

In the second round, the focus shifts to fortifying the trenches. After an offseason dedicated to upgrading the linebacker corps, adding a disruptive force like defensive lineman Christen Miller makes perfect sense. Miller plays with exceptional power for his size, capable of absorbing double-teams and wreaking havoc from the interior, making life easier for everyone behind him.

The third round presents an opportunity to immediately support the new franchise quarterback. Selecting wide receiver Jordan Sarratt, a familiar target for Mendoza, is a savvy move. With the passing game likely to flow through star tight end Brock Bowers, adding a reliable, big-bodied receiver like Sarratt who excels in contested catches gives the rookie QB a trusted weapon and adds a new dimension to the offense.