**Raiders Near First Pick in 2026 NFL Draft After Crushing Loss to Giants**
Key Takeaways:
- The Las Vegas Raiders fell to 2-14 after a 34-10 loss to the New York Giants.
- Raiders are now one step from clinching the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Quarterback prospects Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore headline early draft buzz.
Las Vegas, NV — The keyword “2025 NFL Draft” is trending as the Las Vegas Raiders move closer to securing the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft following a blowout loss to the New York Giants. On Sunday, the Raiders dropped to an NFL-worst 2-14 after a 34-10 loss, positioning themselves to earn the top draft selection if they lose their season finale next week.
Raiders Collapse Sets Up Draft Implications
The Week 17 matchup between the Raiders and Giants carried major implications for the future of both franchises. Entering the game, both teams were 2-13, placing them at the bottom of the league standings. However, the Giants came out strong behind a balanced effort and secured a dominant 34-10 road win. That shifted the edge to the Raiders, who now sit alone with the NFL’s worst record at 2-14. If they lose next Sunday, they will clinch the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Slumped Season and Strategic Injuries Raise Questions
Las Vegas has leaned into its rebuild, signaling long-term planning by shutting down star players like Maxx Crosby and standout rookie Brock Bowers. Officially placed on injured reserve for “health reasons,” the decision is widely seen as tactical, potentially helping the team secure a top quarterback prospect. The Raiders’ gamble on Geno Smith in the offseason has backfired, leaving them desperate for stability under center. Draft experts are already linking Nevada-born Fernando Mendoza, who won the Heisman at Indiana, and Oregon standout Dante Moore with the potential top selection.
Draft Order Could Reshape Franchise Futures
If the Raiders lose to the Kansas City Chiefs in the final week, they will control the 2026 Draft Board, a pivotal position for a franchise lacking a long-term plan at quarterback. Meanwhile, the Giants, who drafted Jaxson Dart last year, have a more nuanced decision ahead. With Dart showing flashes despite injuries, New York may explore other positions rather than invest in back-to-back first-round quarterbacks. For Las Vegas, all signs point to a full-scale rebuild starting with a new face of the franchise in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is 2025 nfl draft trending?
A: The Raiders are close to clinching the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, fueling draft speculation and early talk about top quarterback prospects.
Q: What happens next?
A: If the Raiders lose their season finale against the Chiefs, they will secure the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
#NFLDraft #Raiders #FernandoMendoza #DanteMoore #NFL2026Draft
