Raiders’ 2026 draft class set up for future success
The Las Vegas Raiders made several key selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, headlined by quarterback Fernando Mendoza taken first overall from Indiana. They added immediate defensive depth with safety Treydan Stukes in the second round and potential high-value cornerback Jermod McCoy in the fourth round. While Mendoza represents the franchise's future, the success of the class hinges on player health and development over the coming seasons.
- ▪The Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- ▪Safety Treydan Stukes, drafted in the second round, is expected to contribute early due to team needs and his versatile skill set.
- ▪Cornerback Jermod McCoy, picked in the fourth round, was considered a top talent but fell due to concerns over a knee injury.
- ▪The selection of guard Trey Zuhn III in the third round was seen as questionable given other positional needs on the offensive line.
- ▪The Raiders' draft strategy reflects a rebuild supported by new leadership, including Tom Brady in a front-office role.
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NFL Raiders’ 2026 draft class set up for future success By Vincent Bonsignore Published May 2, 2026, 8:00 a.m. ET Here’s a closer look at the Raiders’ 2026 draft class: 3 Getty Images Instant impact player — Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona, Round 2, No. 38 Like a lot of teams, the Raiders will line up in plenty of three-safety formations, and by sheer lack of numbers in that room, Stukes has a chance to earn early playing time. But this isn’t a case of handing an incapable player a job simply because of a need. Stukes was a big-time draft riser as a versatile secondary player able to line up all over the field, provide excellent pass coverage and lay the wood in the run game. 3 Former Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy might turn out to be the steal of the draft.
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