The Las Vegas Raiders are entering the upcoming NFL season with a renewed sense of optimism, bolstered by significant offseason acquisitions including veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza. The team aims to move past a challenging 2025 campaign that saw them finish with a 3-14 record and the league's worst offense.
Offseason Overhaul Under New Leadership
Under new head coach Klint Kubiak, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Seahawks and Vikings, the Raiders have made substantial changes to their roster. The most impactful moves have been in the quarterback position, with the signing of four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins and the selection of Fernando Mendoza as the top prospect in the NFL Draft. These additions effectively reshape the team's offensive identity and signal a departure from the previous season's struggles.
The team's offensive woes in 2025 were stark, as they managed to score a league-low 241 points. Inconsistent quarterback play, struggles on the road, and difficulties protecting the football contributed to a quick exit for head coach Pete Carroll. To address these issues, Kubiak's hiring and the subsequent quarterback strategy are central to the Raiders' plan for improvement.
Roster Enhancements and Player Development
With Cousins set to lead the offense, the Raiders anticipate greater stability. An improved interior offensive line is expected to provide better protection, while a strong receiving corps featuring tight end Brock Bowers, Michael Mayer, and wide receiver Tre Tucker offers significant offensive potential. Running back Ashton Jeanty is also poised for a larger role, benefiting from more reliable quarterback play.
Defensively, the Raiders will continue to rely on the pass-rushing prowess of Maxx Crosby, who remains a focal point despite offseason speculation. The defensive front is bolstered by Kwity Paye, and the linebacking unit has been reinforced with Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean. The secondary, including Taron Johnson, will be crucial in improving the unit's efficiency against opposing passing attacks.
Mendoza is expected to develop behind Cousins, with the veteran's presence intended to provide a bridge while the young quarterback gains experience. This approach aims to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term player development.
Betting Outlook and Season Expectations
Despite the significant additions, the Raiders are not widely projected for a playoff push, given the strength of their division opponents, including the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, and Kansas City Chiefs. However, the presence of new talent and a new coaching staff suggests a marked improvement over the previous season's performance.
Bookmakers and analysts are cautiously optimistic, with over/under win totals for the Raiders often set around 5.5 wins. The team's ability to control possession and establish a consistent offensive rhythm under Kubiak will be key factors. Jeanty is highlighted as a player who could see increased production, with predictions favoring him to exceed 7.5 rushing touchdowns and 974.5 rushing yards, assuming the offense can avoid frequent trailing situations.
