Hondo S. Carpenter Sr. is an award-winning sports journalist with decades of experience. He serves as the Senior Writer for NFL and College sports, and is the beat writer covering the Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, he is the editor and publisher for several sites On SI. Carpenter is a member of the Pro Football Writers Association (PFWA), the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), and the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA).
Raider Nation has weathered decades of challenges—our final mailbag before the 2026 NFL Draft unveils insider buzz that could shape the franchise’s next era.
As the NFL Draft arrives, my final mock of the season reveals pivotal choices—discover which picks could define the Raiders’ future for the next decade.
Raider Nation’s global reach is often underestimated. I invited you to reveal what makes this franchise special—and the stories you shared shed new light on its true legacy.
The upcoming NFL Draft could reshape the Raiders for the next decade. Here’s what insiders are saying—and why the biggest surprises may still be ahead.
Raiders Mock Draft 12.0 unveils bold moves and transformative talent—discover the picks that could redefine the franchise’s future under GM John Spytek.
The Raiders’ decision to sign Kirk Cousins cements their shrewd offseason strategy—and there’s a hidden reason that even benefits Fernando Mendoza that few have uncovered.