The Las Vegas Raiders shot out to a 3-0 start this season before dropping back-to-back games. Still, an encouraging first month of the Klint Kubiak era can't hide the fact that this roster is still multiple talented players away from being truly competitive.
When Fernando Mendoza replaces Kirk Cousins in the starting lineup, he'll be surrounded by an incomplete offensive line and a lackluster group of pass catchers outside of Brock Bowers. General manager John Spytek still has plenty of work to do to set his quarterback up for success.
He'll need to nail the 2027 NFL Draft to give Mendoza his best chance to shine. These seven picks would be a good place to start.
Round 1 - Nick Marsh, Indiana WR
Nick Marsh didn't play with Mendoza at Indiana, but he would mesh perfectly with the Raiders quarterback. He can bring down contested catches consistently and would be the back-shoulder fade target that Mendoza needs out wide.
Marsh's impact as a blocker could help improve Ashton Jeanty's efficiency, too. He might not be a typical WR1, but his presence would lift the Raiders' offense beyond his raw receiving numbers.
Round 2 - Cayden Green, Missouri G
Cayden Green is a left tackle at Missouri, but he has experience at guard and may benefit from a move back inside in the NFL. In Las Vegas, he could take over for Spencer Burford, who has already allowed 18 pressures this season.
With Green, Tyler Linderbaum, and Jackson Powers-Johnson, the Raiders would have a dynamic group of interior offensive linemen in front of Mendoza.
Round 3 - Koi Perich, Oregon S
Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola-Mao are both set to hit free agency after this season, leaving the Raiders thin at safety. Koi Perich could be a solid answer in the middle rounds, as he can play in the box or as a deep safety.
Perich is an excellent tackler who diagnoses plays quickly for a college defender. He could slot into Las Vegas' starting lineup immediately.
Round 4 - James Smith, Ohio State DT
The Raiders won't be able to solve all of their weaknesses in one draft. If they prioritize the offense, defensive tackle may need to fall by the wayside. Still, a player like James Smith could provide a boost on Day 3.
Smith is a solid run defender who plays primarily as a three-technique defensive tackle for Ohio State.
Round 5 - Adam Trick, Texas Tech EDGE
Sticking with the defensive line, Adam Trick would bring a bit more pass-rushing juice to the Raiders' defensive front. He's explosive off the line of scrimmage and has enough technical skill to make an impact on obvious passing downs.
Round 6 - Isaiah Sategna III, Oklahoma WR
Tre Tucker is in the final year of his contract, so the Raiders could be in need of a versatile receiver who can return kicks. Isaiah Sategna III fits the bill. The Oklahoma wideout is explosive with the ball in his hands and could be as close as Las Vegas is going to get to a one-for-one Tucker replacement.
Round 6 - DJ Barksdale, UCLA CB
DJ Barksdale is significantly undersized at just 5'8" and 185 pounds, but that hasn't stopped him from playing at a high level this season. He's a high-motor slot defender who would primarily play on special teams for the Raiders.
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