The Raiders' Draft Board Has One Glaring Question Mark

The biggest question for the Raiders as they approach the draft is how soon they'll take a new offensive weapon for Mendoza. He will be an offensive weapon in his own right, but with a second-round pick just four selections in, they have a chance to snag some premium offensive talent on day two.

The Raiders have done their best to give him as good a supporting cast as possible in his rookie season. Tyler Linderbaum may not be able to catch passes, but he will make the biggest impact in his development. Jalen Nailor was underappreciated in the offense of the Minnesota Vikings last season, and he has a chance to break out with a quarterback eager to get him the ball.

I doubt they'd use such a valuable pick on either a backup running back or tight end, which just leaves wide receiver and offensive lineman. They could also use that pick to add to their defense, which has been a clear focus in the offseason.

Their secondary is missing a safety they trust long-term, and they'd also like an intriguing new pass-rusher. What can't happen is another repeat of Jack Bech, them drafting a promising player with their second-round pick just for him not to play.

I think the Raiders should look to add another receiver in the second round, but it has to be one that Klint Kubiak is comfortable giving an expanded role in their offense. Mendoza played with a lot of superb contested catchers in his final year as an Indiana Hoosier, so prioritizing a prospect with strong hands might be in the Raiders' best interest.

Regardless, their second-round pick is just as important as the first overall selection. What they decide to do with it and who that player turns out to be could make or break their 2026 draft class.