Las Vegas Raiders Shape 2027 Draft with PFF Mock Simulator

Las Vegas Raiders are already eyeing the 2027 NFL Draft, with Pro Football Focus’s mock draft simulator projecting a roster overhaul after a 3‑14 season that left the club 14th in the AFC and on a one‑game winning streak.

How does the PFF simulator project Raiders’ 2027 picks?

The simulator runs thousands of draft scenarios, weighing the Raiders’ current depth chart, salary‑cap space and scouting grades. It suggests the team could land a top‑10 quarterback, a versatile edge rusher and a play‑making safety. Those picks line up with the gaps exposed in a defense that surrendered over 400 yards per game this year.

Which players could fill the biggest holes?

PFF flags a need at quarterback after Derek Carr’s contract expires and the offense stalled at 18.2 points per game. The model leans toward a dual‑threat passer from a Power‑5 school, someone who can extend plays and boost the passing attack. On defense, the simulator highlights a 6‑9, 260‑pound edge rusher who posted 12.5 sacks last season in college, matching the Raiders’ quest for more pressure.

What does this mean for the current roster?

If the Raiders pull off those picks, veterans like Josh Jacobs and Darren Waller could see reduced roles, freeing cap room for new talent. Defensive stalwart Maxx Crosby might shift to a rotational slot, allowing younger linemen to develop. The mock draft also suggests a possible trade‑up, indicating the front office is willing to gamble to secure a franchise quarterback.

When will the Raiders test these ideas?

The next live test comes on September 13, 2026, when the Raiders host the Miami Dolphins. A win there could spark momentum, while a loss would underline the urgency of the draft plan. The team’s 3‑14 record and 14th‑place AFC standing set the stage for a dramatic offseason, and the PFF simulation offers a roadmap for turning the tide.

How reliable is the PFF mock draft?

PFF’s algorithm incorporates historical draft outcomes, player combine metrics and team‑specific needs. While no model can predict the exact order, the simulator’s track record of matching actual picks within five spots gives fans confidence. Raiders analysts will likely compare the simulation’s suggestions with their own scouting reports before making final decisions.

What should fans watch for moving forward?

Keep an eye on the Raiders’ free‑agency moves this summer; any sign‑and‑trade deals could shift the mock draft’s assumptions. Also, monitor the performance of rookie QB J.J. McCarthy, who could be a benchmark for the type of talent the Raiders hope to draft. The combination of on‑field results and data‑driven projections will shape the narrative heading into the 2027 draft.