Raiders preseason: 53-man roster prediction ahead of Cardinals game
Silver And Black Pride • • sports
Key Points:
- The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for their first preseason game of the 2026 NFL season against the Arizona Cardinals, with an initial 53-man roster prediction released ahead of training camp cuts.
- Kirk Cousins is projected as the starting quarterback, with Fernando Mendoza as the franchise’s future and Aidan O’Connell as a potential trade candidate or backup.
- Key starters include Ashton Jeanty at running back, Brock Bowers at tight end, and Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce at edge rusher, while several position battles remain fluid, especially on the offensive line and defensive tackle groups.
- The cornerback position is highly competitive, with rookie Hezekiah Masses challenging for a starting spot, and changes expected based on training camp performance.
- Specialists are set with Matt Gay as kicker, AJ Cole III as punter, and rookie Tyler Duzansky as long snapper, while some players face cuts after training camp evaluations.
