Las Vegas residents who follow the Raiders can finally breathe a little easier after a dismal 2025 campaign that left the franchise at the bottom of the AFC West with a 3–14 record. The team secured the No. 1 overall pick in the draft and, more importantly, made two high‑profile moves in the quarterback room that could signal the end of the rebuilding era.
New leadership on the field
Former Seattle and Minnesota offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak was hired as head coach in the offseason. Known for his disciplined approach and ability to develop talent, Kubiak inherits a roster that still boasts Pro Bowl‑caliber players such as tight end Brock Bowers and pass rusher Maxx Crosby. To give the offense a steady hand, the Raiders signed four‑time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins to a multi‑year contract. In addition, they used the No. 1 draft slot to select quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza, a highly touted talent from the college ranks.
The moves effectively end the tenure of former starter Garner Minshew, but give the team a clear path forward: Cousins provides veteran stability while Mendoza develops under his tutelage. The coaching staff believes the combination will allow the offensive line—now upgraded with new interior talent—to protect the quarterback better and open up the running game for back Ashton Jeanty.
Offensive outlook
With All‑Pro tight end Bowers anchoring the passing attack and the addition of wideout Tre Tucker, the Raiders now have more weapons than they did last season. The revamped offensive line should give Cousins the time he needs to execute Kubiak’s play‑calling, while Mendoza learns the NFL’s speed from the sidelines. If the unit can establish a consistent ground game, Jeanty could see a significant increase in rushing touchdowns and yardage, providing a much‑needed balance to the offense.
Defensive continuity
On defense, Maxx Crosby remains the centerpiece of the pass rush, flanked by emerging talent Kwity Paye. The linebacking corps has been refreshed with Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, and the secondary, led by veteran Taron Johnson, will need to stay disciplined against the high‑powered offenses of the AFC West.
Realistic expectations
While the Raiders are unlikely to contend for the playoffs this season—given the strength of division rivals the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, and Kansas City Chiefs—there is optimism that the team will surpass the three wins of 2025. Analysts project a modest improvement, perhaps reaching the 5.5‑win mark, though that remains uncertain.
Fans should temper expectations: Cousins struggled in his previous stint with the Atlanta Falcons, and the team’s overall talent level still lags behind the division’s elite. However, Kubiak’s disciplined coaching style and the added depth at quarterback give the Raiders a clearer roadmap to progress.
Betting perspective
For those who follow sports betting, the Raiders present a more attractive proposition than they did last year. With a veteran quarterback under center and a promising rookie learning the ropes, the over/under on total wins may be more attainable. Jeanty’s rushing touchdown total, previously projected at 5.5, could see a modest bump if the offense gains consistency.
Overall, the 2026 season offers a hopeful narrative for Las Vegas football fans. The combination of seasoned leadership, youthful potential, and a refreshed coaching staff could finally steer the Raiders out of the basement and toward a competitive footing.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
