> At a Glance
> – Raiders secure No. 1 pick in 2026 NFL Draft after Giants win
> – First overall selection for Raiders since 2007
> – Draft to be held April 23-25 in Pittsburgh
> – Why it matters: Raiders can target a franchise quarterback
After a decisive Week 18 win over the Cowboys, the New York Giants set the stage for the Las Vegas Raiders to lock in the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Raiders, who entered the final week with a 2-14 record, will not be affected by their upcoming game against the Chiefs. This marks the franchise’s second time selecting first overall.
Raiders Secure the Top Pick
The Giants’ victory in Week 18 cemented the Raiders’ position at the top of the draft order. The pick is guaranteed regardless of the Raiders’ final record or the outcome of their game with the Chiefs. It is the second occasion the Raiders have held the first overall selection, the first being in 2007 when they drafted JaMarcus Russell.
- 2007: Drafted LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell (out after three seasons)
Draft Context and History
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. With the top 18 picks determined after Week 18, teams can begin to map out their strategies. The Raiders’ need for a quarterback is again evident, as they previously had high expectations for Pete Carroll and Geno Smith that did not materialize.
- Indiana’s Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza
- Oregon’s Dante Moore
- No obvious top pick like Cam Ward or Caleb Williams
Potential Quarterback Choices
Among the prospects, Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy as a standout for No. 1 Indiana, is considered the most likely early-round selection. Moore also presents a viable option, but the Raiders have yet to decide on a clear choice.
Key Takeaways
- Raiders now hold the No. 1 draft pick for 2026
- Draft will be held in Pittsburgh April 23-25
- Fernando Mendoza is the most likely quarterback pick
With the No. 1 pick secured, the Raiders can now focus on drafting a franchise quarterback and reshaping their roster ahead of the 2026 season.
