Although Geno Smith remains the current starter, it is increasingly clear the Las Vegas Raiders will look elsewhere soon. The franchise has not selected a quarterback in the first round since 2007, when it drafted JaMarcus Russell. That pick failed spectacularly, but many of the team’s recent first-rounders have not. The path toward building a sustainable winner is straightforward: draft a quarterback in the first round. For Las Vegas, that should be the only priority in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The importance of landing a young passer goes beyond player development. Two years ago, Kliff Kingsbury sought to join the Raiders’ staff but ultimately chose Washington because the Commanders were set on drafting Jayden Daniels. Quality coaches do not tie their futures to mediocre quarterback play. The Raiders learned that again this offseason when both Ben Johnson and Mike Vrabel declined interest. Solving the quarterback problem is essential to replacing Pete Carroll and attracting a top-tier coaching staff.
Recent examples reinforce the point. The Chicago Bears and New England Patriots show what drafting a young quarterback can do. New England went from a four-win team in 2024 to a Super Bowl contender, powered by strong quarterback play on a rookie contract. The Raiders need a similar reset.
Related: Raiders Pre-Game Notes For Week 14
Unlike last year, the upcoming class features several legitimate first-round options. Fernando Mendoza currently headlines the group. The Indiana standout is tracking toward a Heisman Trophy and possibly a national title, elevating his program into contention.
Dante Moore also merits consideration. While Mendoza profiles as a traditional pocket passer, Moore offers more mobility and improvisation. However, recent Oregon quarterbacks have struggled in the NFL, a trend working against him after Dillon Gabriel and Bo Nix failed to establish themselves.
Ty Simpson represents another option, though he is not viewed as a premium first-round talent. Even so, Las Vegas must take a swing. Any of these prospects would dramatically improve the franchise’s long-term outlook.
In short, the Raiders cannot delay this decision any longer. Drafting a quarterback in the first round is no longer a luxury—it is the franchise’s clearest path forward.
*Top Photo: Getty Images