If you're a Las Vegas Raiders fan looking for a reason to get excited about the team's future, look no further than a recent shoutout from one of the NFL's sharpest analysts. ESPN's Louis Riddick—a former player and front-office executive whose player evaluations carry serious weight—has tabbed Oregon wide receiver Malik Benson as a late-round gem to watch for the Silver and Black.

Riddick recently released his fifth annual list of favorite non-first-round prospects from the 2026 NFL Draft, highlighting players he believes could become significant contributors or even starters within two to three years. For the Raiders, Benson—a sixth-round pick—made the cut. That's high praise coming from Riddick, who has a proven track record of spotting talent that others might overlook.

Benson's path to the NFL has been anything but conventional. After starting his college career at a junior college, he transferred to Oregon and quickly made an impact with his speed, route-running, and ability to stretch the field. Now, he's poised to bring that same explosiveness to the Raiders' offense.

If Riddick's assessment proves accurate, hitting on a wide receiver this late in the draft could be a game-changer for Las Vegas. In today's NFL, finding value in the later rounds is often the difference between a good team and a great one. A player like Benson, who might have flown under the radar, could provide the kind of depth and playmaking that turns a promising roster into a contender.

For Raiders fans, it's a reminder that the draft isn't just about the first round—it's about finding those hidden gems who can make a difference. And with Riddick's stamp of approval, Malik Benson is a name worth remembering.