With playoff contention officially out of the question, it’s time to look to 2026 if you’re a Las Vegas Raiders fan. The first step is the NFL draft. Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered.
We get it, this is getting old. The Raiders haven’t been able to “get it together” for what seems like an eternity. Though there have been some outstanding draft selections, such as Brock Bowers two years ago, results have been mixed. The fact is, no regime has been in place long enough to see out their vision in terms of the draft—not Dave Ziegler, not Tom Telesco, heck, John Spytek could join that list. However, the difference in 2026 will be one thing: the need for a first-round quarterback is undeniable.
We will be presenting different scenarios every Monday morning from here until Day 1 of the 2026 NFL draft. With that being said, buckle up, Raider Nation, there’ll be plenty of prospects to talk about in the coming months.
Round 1: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Alabama quarterbacks, well, players in general from Alabama don’t exactly work out for the Raiders. At least, not historically. The thing is, you could argue that each of those players such as Amari Cooper, Alex Leatherwood, and Rolando McClain, was a victim of their circumstances. An exception could be Josh Jacobs. Nonetheless, whoever is coaching the Raiders in 2026 has to finally correct this course. You might as well start with one of the highest-touted prospects that’ll be coming out of that institution, in Ty Simpson.
Simpson has largely impressed during his run with the Crimson Tide. Having recorded 25 touchdown passes with only four interceptions to his name, Simpson epitomizes consistency. In fact, being No. 6 in the SEC for pass completion percentage (65.8) certainly lends to that belief. His pair of rushing touchdowns this season also shows a willingness to take the ball and make things happen when the occasion calls for it.
Why would the Raiders draft Simpson?
If you ask most Raiders fans, they’ll tell you they want a quarterback in the first regardless of who it is. While that’s understandable, Simpson is more than just a name. He’s got veteran-like awareness that’ll translate to the NFL. His downfield vision is something to be in awe of as he creates throwing windows, which then allow his receivers to create additional separation. That will bode well with some of the speedsters that the Raiders feature, such as Tre Tucker.
Another aspect of Simpson’s game that could ease his transition will be his pocket presence. He knows at all times when and where to put the ball—he already processes everything like an NFL quarterback. If you’re not sold, his leadership qualities will also help the Raiders when and if the organization goes after him next year.
Round 2: Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa
Selecting a quarterback will be difficult enough, but another glaring deficiency that cost the Raiders in 2025 was the offensive line. If we’re being honest, it wouldn’t have mattered who the quarterback was this season—they were going to be running for their lives behind this unit. Even if you take Simpson, you need to heavily invest in the O-line, which leads us to Gennings Dunker. Incredible last name aside, there’s much upside to this Iowa product.
The six-foot-five, 300-pound-plus prospect has several accolades to his credit, among them being Second-Team All-Big Team. Possessing notable strength, especially in his upper body, Dunker knows how to take out incoming defenders upon initial contact—he’s going to knock you on your butt, in other words. What’s more is that as an anchor, Dunker understands how to stand his ground—delivering solid protection in the process.
While his quickness and speed are concerns, it may translate into him leaning toward the right side rather than being Kolton Miller’s replacement. Either way, you need to stockpile as many quality offensive linemen as you can if you’re the Raiders—this season proves that.
*Top Photo: Getty Images