Las Vegas used the 2026 offseason to build optimism, hiring Klint Kubiak as head coach and adding free‑agent talent while putting a 10‑player draft on the table, highlighted by first‑overall pick quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The moves give the Raiders a short‑ and long‑term plan at quarterback, with Kirk Cousins joining on a one‑year, $20 million deal that also has a club option for two years at $80 million. Cousins’ experience and familiarity with Kubiak’s system should help Mendoza grow, while giving the team flexibility to play the 2025 Heisman winner when ready.

At running back, the Raiders lost Zamir White and Raheem Mostert but added fourth‑round pick Mike Washington Jr., who had a strong rookie campaign with 1,321 yards from scrimmage. The addition of Washington gives the backfield depth and a potential second option as the offense is expected to improve under Kubiak. Wide‑receiver changes saw Tyler Lockett depart and Jalen Nailor arrive on a three‑year, $35 million deal, while Malik Benson and Dareke Young were also added. Nailor’s production has risen in his last two seasons, and his speed will complement the existing talent.

On the offensive line, the Raiders improved by signing Tyler Linderbaum to a three;year, $81 million contract, making him the highest‑paid center in NFL history. The additions of Spencer Burford and Trey Zuhn III also boost depth. Tight‑end and defensive‑line moves were minimal, keeping those positions largely unchanged.