Raiders draft countdown: Derrick Burgess is best No. 56

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Mark Hebert | Last updated Feb 26, 2026 9:52 AM ET

Fifty-six days remain until the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 23-25, 2026. After a 3-14 season in 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick as this daily countdown continues through the franchise’s best players by jersey number.

Today, Feb. 26, the number is 56.

Derrick Burgess, No. 56

Derrick Burgess is the pick for No. 56 because he gave the Raiders game-changing edge production in a short window. From 2005-2008, he was the defenses most consistent pressure player and one of the few weekly problems for opposing quarterbacks.

Burgess played 56 games for the Raiders and started 52. He also produced 38.5 sacks in Silver and Black, which is the separator for this number.

Happy birthday to former Raiders DE Derrick Burgess, August 12, 1978.

2x Raider Pro Bowler. pic.twitter.com/GwrgHu8XzV

— AFL Godfather

Image | Source: Dice City Sports
Image | Source: Dice City Sports
Image | Source: Dice City Sports
(@NFLMAVERICK) August 12, 2024

Why Burgess gets No. 56

No. 56 has a deeper list than some numbers, but Burgess has the most impactful peak. His sack total stands out, and he paired it with forced fumbles and backfield disruption.

He also carried leaguewide recognition. Burgess made two Pro Bowls in his career, and his Raiders run was the centerpiece of his reputation.

Draft and background

Burgess was born Aug. 12, 1978, in Lake City, S.C. He played at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Maryland before playing at Mississippi.

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted him in the third round, 63rd overall, in 2001. Later, he joined the Raiders and became a featured pass rusher from 2005-2008.