Las Vegas Raiders Strengthen Squad in One of NFL's Top Offseasons

Las Vegas Raiders have been crowned the league’s second‑best offseason by CBS Sports, a boost that spotlights their aggressive free‑agent signings and a blockbuster draft haul. The recognition comes as the club sits 14th in the AFC with a 3‑14 record and a one‑game winning streak, eyeing a showdown with the Miami Dolphins on September 13, 2026.

How did CBS Sports rank the Raiders?

CBS analyst Josh Edwards placed the Raiders just behind the league leader after evaluating every team’s moves between the draft and free agency. He pointed to the No. 1 overall pick, quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza, as a cornerstone. Edwards also praised the hiring of offensive‑minded Klint Kubiak and the market‑value contract given to center Tyler Linderbaum, saying those decisions give Mendoza a solid foundation.

Which players anchored the offseason upgrades?

The Raiders locked up veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, adding a proven passer to mentor the rookie. On the offensive line, Linderbaum’s new deal signals a commitment to protecting the pocket. In the backfield, running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers were highlighted as immediate weapons. Defensively, the draft added a safety and a cornerback, bolstering a secondary that struggled last season.

What does this mean for the Raiders’ short‑term outlook?

While the moves are promising, Edwards warned the team still has gaps before it can challenge the league’s elite. The new pieces should help the Raiders improve from their current 3‑14 mark, but consistency on both sides of the ball remains a question. The upcoming clash with Miami offers a chance to test the revamped roster against a playoff‑bound opponent.

What are the next steps for Las Vegas?

The front office plans to build on the draft’s defensive talent while continuing to fine‑tune the offensive scheme under Kubiak. If Mendoza adapts quickly and the veteran leaders perform, the Raiders could shift from a rebuilding narrative to genuine playoff contention within two seasons. The next test arrives on September 13, 2026, when they travel to face the Dolphins, a game that could set the tone for the rest of the year.

Bottom line: CBS Sports’ ranking validates the Raiders’ aggressive approach, but the real test will be translating offseason hype into on‑field results as the season unfolds.