Could the Raiders finally land their franchise QB and a defensive game-changer? Unpacking top draft targets and free agency possibilities for a crucial offseason.
There are plenty of bad memories from the 2025 season for fans of the Las Vegas Raiders, but they look to finally be headed in a positive direction after years of non-competitive football. Set up with the No. 1 overall selection in the draft and a new offensive-minded coach, 2026 should be a lot more fun for those in Las Vegas.
In a recent Bleacher Report article listing the dream target for each NFL team on both sides of the ball, the Raiders were given several talents to target in the draft to have a successful offseason.
The obvious pick for the dream offensive target for the Raiders is Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Coming off a national championship and a Heisman Trophy, Mendoza is the clear No. 1 in this year’s draft, and the Raiders have nothing in between them and who will hopefully become their franchise quarterback.
Mendoza had a ridiculous 2025 season with the Hoosiers, throwing an FBS-leading 41 touchdowns for 3,535 yards in 16 games. He led the Big Ten in passing yards per attempt and led the FBS in passer efficiency rating at 182.9. After seeing the abysmal quarterback play in Las Vegas last season, there’s no doubt who fans want to see selected with the first overall pick in April.
Defensively, it gets a little trickier. There are even more holes on the defensive side of the ball for the Raiders, with edge rusher Maxx Crosby being the only real game-changer. Even then, there have been reports that he’s unhappy with his treatment by the team and may even be on another team before the 2026 season starts.
With many holes to fill, Bleacher Report tabbed the defensive line as the position group that needs the most help. If they choose to strengthen their line in free agency, Jaelan Phillips was mentioned as the name to target. If the Raiders want to continue their youth movement, targeting edge rushers like Gabe Jacas and Derrick Moore would be the way to go, according to Bleacher Report.
There are many ways the Raiders can operate this season. With a great position in the draft and tons of money available to spend, there is real optimism about the direction of the team for the Raiders for the first time since the move from Oakland.