From standout performers to lingering questions, these are the biggest headlines and takeaways coming out of the Las Vegas Raiders‘ OTA sessions.
At this instant, the 2026 offseason has been filled with juicy headlines. Maxx Crosby was traded, but that did not last for long. His physical health has not derailed “The Condor” from being very present at Organized Team Activities (OTAs). After many additions to this roster, Crosby could have the best supporting cast of his career.
New head coach Klint Kubiak is requiring the players to earn the infamous shield emblem for their helmets. Compared to the past, No. 98 is a lot more pleased with the status of this franchise.
“We have an extremely smart and great leader of men with Kubiak,” Crosby said. “I am exactly where I want to be.”
The theme of the defense is versatility…
Although defensive coordinator Rob Leonard is a returning coach, he is bringing a new mentality to the unit. The Raiders bolstered the position group by acquiring nickel cornerback Taron Johnson via trade, yet the depth chart remains crowded, with several defensive backs competing for snaps in the nickel this season.
Among those turning heads is 2026 second-round pick Treydan Stukes. The former Arizona safety has drawn praise from Raiders safeties coach Matt Robinson for his positional versatility.
“[Stukes] is playing multiple spots for us and that’s encouraging,” Robinson said. “It allows us to feel comfortable that you can play somewhere fast.”
Stukes is not alone in that regard. Dalton Johnson and Jeremy Chinn are also working at multiple positions, adding another layer of complexity to Leonard’s scheme. For opposing offenses, that versatility will make the Raiders’ defensive playcalling difficult to decipher.
There will be a resurgence from the offensive stars…
Despite the Raiders’ offensive struggles last season, Ashton Jeanty still surpassed 1,000 all-purpose yards. With a full year in the system, his numbers should explode in year two. Kubiak has drawn comparisons between the Boise State alum and San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey, and running backs coach Omar Young is placing a particular emphasis on expanding Jeanty’s pass-game ability.
“Being able to protect, to be a better pass catcher,” Young said. “Those are the things we’re working on right now.”
Jeanty is not the only offensive playmaker with something to prove. Tight end Brock Bowers is returning from an injury-riddled season, with Kubiak describing the former Georgia standout as a “football robot from heaven.” Healthy and motivated, Bowers will look to reclaim his standing as the best tight end in football.
Tyler Linderbaum and Eric Stokes are emerging leaders…
Because the defensive back room is stocked with young players, Stokes has stepped into a leadership role. At just 27, the starting cornerback is already considered a veteran presence.
“I’ve been wanting the leader role,” Stokes said. “I’m embracing any new role that I can.”
That same dynamic is playing out along the offensive line. Linderbaum has emerged as a leader, joining Kolton Miller in anchoring a unit short on experienced depth. As a result, DJ Glaze and other young offensive linemen are leaning heavily on both veterans to develop their games.
At quarterback, Kirk Cousins has taken firm control of the offense. Fernando Mendoza continues to improve, but the seasoned veteran holds a clear edge in the competition for the starting job.
What are you looking forward to this season?
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images