Rhett Lewis: Analyzing the Raiders' 2026 draft class

Key Points:

• Former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who recently won a national title, has been drafted by the Raiders and is seen as well-prepared to contribute immediately in Klint Kubiak's system, aiming to revive the franchise's postseason success.
• The Raiders selected versatile defensive back Treydan Stukes from Arizona, praised for his physicality and ability to impact games both in coverage and tackling, expected to strengthen the team's defensive backfield significantly.
• Edge rusher Keyron Crawford from Auburn and versatile offensive lineman Trey Zuhn III from Texas A&M were added to bolster the Raiders' pass rush and offensive line depth, with both players showing strong potential to contribute early.
• Cornerback Jermod McCoy, considered one of the best in college football before an ACL injury, was acquired in the fourth round despite medical concerns, representing a high-value risk for the Raiders given his top-10 draft talent.
• Running back Mike Washington Jr. and defensive back Hezekiah Masses were notable mid-round picks, with Washington praised for his speed and potential fit in the Raiders' run game, and Masses recognized for his ball-hawking skills including five interceptions and 13 pass breakups last season.