Raiders’ 2026 Draft Pick Emerges As Pleasant Surprise

• "The Raiders drafted Benson in the sixth round with the belief that the former Oregon wideout could be a vertical threat who opens up the offense and makes explosive plays," McFadden said.

• "He showcased that ability throughout OTAs and minicamp. He and quarterback Fernando Mendoza developed a strong connection during practices. Benson was Mendoza's go-to target during team drills, especially in the middle of the field. The competition at wide receiver is pretty much wide open, meaning Benson has a chance to create a role for himself in Year 1 if his production continues during training camp."

Why Benson's Development Is Important

Las Vegas' pass-catching options - other than Brock Bowers - will prove to be a work in progress, as there is not one wide receiver who has proven to be a WR1 on an NFL roster. That said, the Raiders' passing attack projects to be well-balanced.

Not having a bona fide go-to wide receiver will be apparent in several moments this season, but having a handful of players who can contribute is never a bad thing. Benson was an explosive wide receiver at Oregon, compiling 43 receptions for 719 yards and six touchdowns. The 6-foot-1, 194-pound receiver, developing into a formidable deep threat, could unlock another element of this offense.

Earlier this offseason, general manager John Spytek provided his analysis on the Raiders' wide receiver corps.

• "I like our receiving room," Spytek said. "I think people are probably going to roll their eyes. Everyone loves receivers. This is a question I get from my kids, 'Dad, can we get 15 receivers on the roster?' We live in the fantasy football world. I value receivers."

• "I do," Spytek continued. "I really do, but I love Tre Tucker; he's a good player. We're excited about Jalen Nailor. We drafted Jack Bech in the second [round] last year. We have a lot of belief in Jack [Bech]. We drafted Dont'e Thornton in the fourth [round] last year. I believe in Malik Benson."

Benson proving himself as a legitimate target provides Las Vegas with another receiver on the depth chart, and without a true WR1, having as many solid contributors is not the worst alternative.