As the 2025 NFL regular season winds toward its conclusion, the Las Vegas Raiders’ position in the 2026 NFL Draft order has become one of the most talked about storylines in professional football. After their Week 17 matchup against the New York Giants, the Raiders find themselves in prime position to secure one of the top selections in the upcoming draft a potential franchise defining opportunity as the organization looks to rebuild.
Raiders Lose “Tank Bowl” Yet Improve Draft Position
On Sunday in Week 17, the Raiders suffered a 34‑10 defeat at the hands of the Giants in a game widely dubbed the Tank Bowl, as both teams entered the contest sporting two win records and competing for the worst mark in the league. The lopsided loss all but guaranteed that Las Vegas will pick at the top of next year’s draft, placing them ahead of the Giants and other struggling teams.
With this result, the Raiders’ record now stands at 2‑14, and, based on the league’s draft order rules (which use record and strength of schedule to determine placement), Las Vegas currently holds the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft provided the outcome of Week 18 goes their way.
Current Draft Order and Where Vegas Sits
Here’s how the current 2026 draft order looks heading into the final week of the season:
Las Vegas Raiders (2‑14)
New York Giants (3‑13)
New York Jets (3‑13)
Tennessee Titans (3‑13)
Arizona Cardinals (3‑13)
Cleveland Browns (4‑12)
Washington Commanders (4‑12)
New Orleans Saints (6‑10)
Kansas City Chiefs (6‑10)
Cincinnati Bengals (6‑10)
plus additional teams through pick 18.
The Raiders are guaranteed no worse than the No. 2 pick in the draft, meaning they’ll be selecting within the top two regardless of final Week 18 results.
What the Week 18 Finale Means
Although the Raiders currently sit in the No. 1 spot, their final draft position still hinges on their Week 18 game against the Kansas City Chiefs. If Las Vegas loses that game, they will almost certainly lock up the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft due to having the league’s worst record and a comparable strength of schedule.
If the Raiders win in Week 18 and the Giants lose to their opponent, New York could reclaim the top spot due to strength of schedule tiebreakers, which the NFL uses when teams finish with the same record.
Regardless of that final game’s outcome, the Raiders now control their own destiny a dramatic turnaround in draft leverage from earlier in the season. Las Vegas will at minimum land the No. 2 pick, and more likely the No. 1 pick, based on current projections.
Why the Draft Position Matters
Securing the first overall pick in the NFL Draft doesn’t just mean prestige it presents the Raiders with the chance to add a potential franchise quarterback or cornerstone player to their roster. After a disappointing season in which offensive struggles have been a central issue, adding top tier talent could reshape the franchise’s future.
Two names already floating atop many 2026 mock drafts are quarterback prospects Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore, both of whom would be prime considerations if the Raiders hold the No. 1 pick and decide to address the quarterback position early.
Team Needs and Offseason Strategy
Las Vegas has several glaring roster needs. Beyond quarterback, the Raiders will likely target improvements at cornerback, offensive line, and pass rush. These areas have been weaknesses throughout the 2025 season and could be addressed in free agency or through the draft.
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A top overall pick would allow the Raiders to prioritize their most pressing long term need without having to trade up or settle for lesser options. Even if they do not secure the No. 1 spot, being at No. 2 still gives them access to elite talent.
What Fans Are Saying
Raiders fans have embraced the draft positioning, even referring to the Week 17 loss as a win in the context of rebuilding. Social media buzz reflects a mix of frustration at the team’s struggles and optimism about the opportunities the draft could bring. With the franchise needing a fresh start, many supporters are looking ahead to April with renewed anticipation.
Final Thoughts
As the Raiders prepare for their final game of the regular season, their 2026 NFL Draft fate is poised on a knife’s edge. With the No. 1 overall pick within reach, Las Vegas stands at a pivotal crossroads. The final week will determine if the franchise earns what could be a transformative selection or slides to No. 2 with nearly equal potential. Either way, after Week 17, the Raiders have positioned themselves for a significant offseason one that could redefine their competitive future.
