Jan 4, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; The Las Vegas Raiders shield logo at midfield at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

5 Teams Raiders Want To Face in Week 1

Originally posted on Las Vegas Raiders on SI
By Logan Lazarczyk | Last updated May 14, 2026 6:30 AM ET

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The full 2026 NFL Schedule will be released tonight, with every international game and a handful of primetime matchups already announced in the days leading up to Thursday night's reveal.

In a lot of ways, the Las Vegas Raiders are playing with house money, no pun intended, but considering the allotment of talent assembled on both sides of the ball, this team could compete for a playoff spot in 2026. If Las Vegas wants to make that dream a reality, breaks along the way are required. Several things have to go right for teams to produce a worthwhile season, and playing a manageable schedule goes a long way.

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On paper, the Raiders have the seventh-hardest schedule next season, but the opponent-winning percentage variable can look drastically different as the season unfolds. Based on what we know so far about the opening week matchups, here are five teams Las Vegas would love to play in Week 1, from most to least desirable.

1. Miami Dolphins

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There's not much analysis required for this one; it's pretty straightforward. The Dolphins could end up being the worst team in the league in 2026, and the Raiders would have an outstanding opportunity to start on the right foot if they faced Miami.

Additionally, this game would take place at Allegiant Stadium, providing another chance for the team to build positive energy out of the gates.

2. Tennessee Titans

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This is another home game, and a slight step up in level of competition. This would allow Las Vegas to appropriately assess itself against a competent opponent.

Both teams are viewed as ones that could make a noticeable leap next season. Las Vegas can add more fuel to that fire with an impressive outing against Cam Ward and the Titans.

3. Cleveland Browns

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This was an interesting game to evaluate, but playing the Browns early in the season, rather than in November or December, would be a welcome sight. Cleveland is one of the worst places to play late in the season, with horrendous weather.

Also, assuming Kirk Cousins is the Week 1 starter, mind as well allow Fernando Mendoza to avoid playing against Myles Garrett.

4. New York Jets

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This would be somewhat of a revenge game for Geno Smith, who spent one season in Las Vegas before being cut this offseason.

However, the Raiders could thank him for giving them the chance to draft Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Las Vegas may also be showing its gratitude to Smith, as he will put the ball in harm's way.

5. Arizona Cardinals

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This is a very winnable game for Las Vegas and, at the same time, a good test of its defense against the likes of Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr., Jeremiyah Love, and Michael Wilson.

This could also backfire, but based on the other opponents the Raiders could draw in this spot, the Cardinals would be more than welcomed as the opening game of the season for silver and black.

This article first appeared on Las Vegas Raiders on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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