Where Raiders Can Still Improve Amid Roster Rebuild

The Las Vegas Raiders have done a good job of addressing some of their biggest needs from last season. What are some areas on their roster that could still use some work?

Klint Kubiak | Darrell Craig Harris

The Las Vegas Raiders project to be one of the most improved teams in the NFL in 2026, even if that doesn't lead to overall team success right away. The talent they've brought in is undeniable, but it's fair to assume there will be some growing pains for a team with a new head coach and quarterback.

Klint Kubiak has his work cut out for him if he wants to turn this franchise around, but his first offseason as a head coach has gone about as well as anyone could've hoped for. Looking beyond 2026, what are some things this team still needs before it can be a contender year in and year out?

A WR1

Las Vegas Raiders WR Tre Tucker | Darrell Craig Harris, Sports Illustrated

By definition, Tre Tucker is the WR1 on this team. However, when you compare him to other teams' first options, he's in the bottom tier across the league. There is a caveat to this: Brock Bowers will be this team's top pass-catcher, but eventually, the Raiders have to get someone in that receiving room to alleviate some pressure off of him.

They've drafted plenty of young talent and are hoping one of them takes a leap this season, but if they don't, I can see this front office trading for a wide receiver. This team should optimize the time Fernando Mendoza is on a rookie contract, so they need a dominant wide receiver sooner rather than later.

Better DL

Maxx Crosby | Arnie Bazemore, On SI

The Raiders have Maxx Crosby, yet it never feels like their defensive line can generate enough pressure. Their linebacker and defensive back rooms have improved to the point where there's less pressure on Crosby to carry their defense now, but he's still their lone star on that side of the field.

The hope is that they can get another star to play alongside him, but all their attempts to do so have failed. I like their addition of Kwity Paye, and if they can continue to add talent to that defensive line, even if it isn't a player of Crosby's caliber, the line should get to a point where it's good enough. I think they can start by getting a better nose tackle to anchor their pass-rush.

Improved OL

Las Vegas Raiders superstar C Tyler Linderbaum

The Raiders have made significant strides in improving their offensive line, namely signing Tyler Linderbaum to a massive deal. And yet, I still feel as if there are improvements to be made. I think the rookies they drafted should be able to take the starting jobs from the veterans on their offensive line, but relying on those late-draft-pick rookies to develop into starting-caliber offensive linemen for multiple seasons is a gamble.