The Las Vegas Raiders enter the 2026 NFL offseason facing major decisions that could shape the franchise’s direction for years to come. With Pete Carroll no longer at the helm, the immediate priority is finding a new head coach and assembling a staff aligned with the organization’s long-term vision. Once leadership is settled, attention will quickly shift to roster construction, where new general manager John Spytek and the incoming coach must work together to address a team filled with question marks.
Fortunately for Las Vegas, resources will not be the issue. Armed with more than $110 million in available cap space and roughly 10 projected draft picks, the Raiders have the flexibility to attack one of the league’s weakest rosters from multiple angles. While the draft will play a key role in filling holes, free agency offers a faster path to proven upgrades, especially across a defense that has consistently lacked support around its lone superstar, Maxx Crosby.
Strengthening that defense is more than a roster concern—it could be essential to keeping Crosby in Las Vegas long term. Adding high-level talent alongside him would not only improve the unit’s overall production but also signal a serious commitment to winning. Several potential free agents stand out as ideal complements, including edge rusher Odafe Oweh, interior disruptor John Franklin-Myers, and linebacker Devin Lloyd, each bringing youth, versatility, and a track record of impact play.
Other options come with different risk-reward profiles. Jaelan Phillips offers elite pass-rushing upside when healthy, though injuries have followed him throughout his career. Meanwhile, Khalil Mack represents a proven veteran presence and a symbolic reunion. Despite his age, Mack continues to play at a high level and would immediately give the Raiders one of the most formidable edge-rushing duos in the NFL if paired with Crosby.
Ultimately, free agency presents the Raiders with a rare opportunity. By surrounding Maxx Crosby with legitimate defensive help, the franchise can address long-standing weaknesses while reinforcing its desire to compete now—not later. Whether through a younger core piece or a familiar veteran face, landing one or more of these impact defenders could be the move that convinces Crosby his future still belongs in Silver and Black.
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