Why 2026 Raiders Defense Could Be Their Biggest Strength

The Raiders were built as a "bend, don't break" defense with bad linebackers at the second level and an inconsistent pass rush opposite of Maxx Crosby, allowing 317.8 yards per game (14th) and 25th in points per game allowed (25.4), which kept them in games. Yet, the margin for error was terribly small due to a league-worst offense. With a new defensive play-caller, new talent at all three levels, and an improved offense, the defense could see drastic improvement.

If Leonard learned anything from Graham, it is that discipline is valuable on the defensive front, the second level, and the secondary. The first-year defensive coordinator coached alongside Mike Macdonald during his time with the Baltimore Ravens, and you could see a bit of Macdonald's influence with this Raiders team in 2026.

In addition, Las Vegas brought back Malcolm Koonce and added Kwity Paye and Keyron Crawford at edge rusher, kept the core of the defensive line intact—including Crosby—and added new talents like Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, Treydan Stukes, Eric Stokes, and Jermod McCoy to the secondary; general manager John Spytek basically rebuilt the talent structure of the defense, and it could lead to it being the biggest strength of the 2026 program.

Admittedly, I do envision a bit of a slump for the Raiders on this side of the ball early on, as it will take time for everyone to build chemistry. These things won't be overnight successes, but as long as the defense is performing to expectations by the end of the year, that is what matters at the end of the day.

Expectations Remain Subjective, but Raiders Defense Is Growing

Speaking of expectations, how do you set them given the understanding of newness everywhere on defense, including the coaching staff? Those expectations are subjective in nature, but if you are reading some of the tea leaves and taking a broader view of what happened last year with the improvements made this year, it's hard not to say they could be the beating heart of the franchise.

It is exciting to think of a great Raiders defense, one that could eventually turn heads and create challenges for AFC West opponents: Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Bo Nix. It may not become an elite unit in 2026, but a slight improvement from "bend, don't break" to shutting down teams and giving a young offense a chance would be a major step forward for the organization.