Where Raiders stand in 2026 NFL Draft order after Week 13 loss to Chargers

The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in a precarious position in the 2026 NFL Draft order after suffering yet another loss in Week 13 to their division rival, the Los Angeles Chargers. As the season winds down and teams jockey for playoff positioning, the Raiders are left to contemplate their future and where they stand in terms of building a competitive roster for the years to come.

The Raiders’ loss to the Chargers was a bitter pill to swallow, as it dropped their record to 4-9 on the season. With only a few games remaining, it is becoming increasingly clear that the Raiders will not be making a postseason run this year. This disappointing season has raised questions about the direction of the franchise and what steps need to be taken to turn things around.

One of the key factors that will determine the Raiders’ draft position is their remaining schedule. With games against tough opponents like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos still on the docket, the Raiders will have their work cut out for them if they hope to improve their standing in the draft order. Every win and loss from here on out will have a significant impact on where the Raiders ultimately end up drafting in April.

Another factor that will play a role in the Raiders’ draft position is the performance of other teams around the league. As the season progresses, the standings will continue to shift, and teams that were once considered playoff contenders may find themselves in the mix for a top draft pick. This unpredictability adds another layer of complexity to the draft order and makes it difficult to predict where the Raiders will ultimately land.

In addition to their on-field performance, the Raiders’ front office will also play a significant role in shaping their draft position. General Manager Mike Mayock and head coach Josh McDaniels will need to carefully evaluate the team’s roster and identify areas of need that can be addressed through the draft. Whether the Raiders choose to target a quarterback, a defensive lineman, or a wide receiver, their decisions in the draft will have a lasting impact on the team’s future success.

As the season winds down and the draft approaches, speculation will be rampant about which players the Raiders will target in the first round. Mock drafts will proliferate, with analysts offering their opinions on which prospects would be the best fit for the team. The Raiders’ front office will need to carefully weigh these opinions and make the best decision possible to set the team up for success in the years to come.

Ultimately, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves at a crossroads in the 2026 NFL Draft order. Their performance in the remaining games of the season, as well as the decisions made by their front office, will determine where they ultimately end up drafting. As fans anxiously await the outcome, one thing is certain: the future of the Raiders hangs in the balance, and every decision made from here on out will have a lasting impact on the team’s success.

Read full article

Source: Sporting News