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Raiders Secure Top NFL Draft Pick Amidst Dismal Season
5 Jan
Summary
- Raiders clinched the first-overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- The team tied a franchise record for most losses in a season.
- Quarterback Geno Smith has a contract through 2028 with $66.5 million guaranteed.
The Las Vegas Raiders have clinched the first-overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, solidifying their position before their final game. This comes after a historically difficult season, where the team tied a franchise record for the most losses in a single season. Their current record stands at 2-14, with a ten-game losing streak preceding their season finale.
This highly coveted draft position was influenced by the New York Giants' victory over the Dallas Cowboys, which pushed the Raiders up in the draft order. The Raiders last held the top pick in 2007, selecting JaMarcus Russell. They are reportedly considering another quarterback, with Indiana's Fernando Mendoza a potential candidate for the No. 1 spot.
Despite quarterback Geno Smith's contract running through 2028 with substantial guaranteed money, his 17 interceptions this season were the league's highest. The Raiders' final placement in the draft order was not impacted by their own Week 18 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, as other teams could not surpass their draft position.
