Raiders' Loss to Giants Locks in Their First Pick in the 2026 NFL Draft
The Las Vegas Raiders' dismal season continued with a crushing defeat to the New York Giants, leaving them with a record of 2-14 heading into the final week of the 2025 NFL season. Their 34-10 loss not only extended their losing streak but also put them in position to claim the first overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With one more loss next week, the Raiders will officially clinch the top draft spot.
The game between the two teams was a battle for the worst record in the league, as both the Raiders and the Giants came in tied with 2-13 records. The Giants, however, needed a loss to secure the coveted No. 1 pick, and while it seemed like they were playing to avoid that outcome, they ended up winning decisively. In fact, their victory handed the Raiders control of the draft’s top pick, which they could now hold onto by losing their final game of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Raiders' performance in the game was a textbook example of just how bad things have gone for them this year. Geno Smith, the team's starting quarterback, threw an interception early in the game, which was returned 47 yards by linebacker Bobby Okereke. The Giants turned this turnover into an easy touchdown, courtesy of a one-yard run from Devin Singletary, giving them a 7-0 lead. Later, rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart added to the Giants' advantage with a 12-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 14-3.
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By halftime, the Giants were in control with a 17-3 lead, leaving the Raiders with little hope of a comeback. Despite the occasional bright spot, like a touchdown from Tyler Lockett, the Raiders were unable to maintain momentum. The Giants capitalized on this, with cornerback Deonte Banks returning a kickoff for a 95-yard touchdown, further widening the gap to 27-10.
The Raiders, who have been disappointing all season, seemed resigned to their fate. Geno Smith, already battered by the constant pressure, limped off the field after taking another hard hit. His inability to lead the team effectively, combined with the defensive struggles, have made it clear that the Raiders are in dire need of a quarterback for the future.
With one game remaining, the Raiders are just a loss away from locking in the top draft pick. Although the Giants have their own quarterback situation to consider with Dart showing both promise and inconsistency, the Raiders’ need for a top quarterback is far more pressing. Many have speculated that the Raiders will likely target Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, who is expected to be the top pick if he declares for the draft. However, Oregon’s Dante Moore, another highly touted quarterback, could also be in the running if he enters the draft.
For the Giants, this win means they will likely finish with a top-seven pick, but they won’t be as desperate for a quarterback as the Raiders. The loss secures their future with a potential draft pick that could bolster other positions, rather than the need for a franchise quarterback.
As the season winds down, all eyes will be on Week 18 when the Raiders face the Chiefs. A loss would guarantee their first pick, allowing them to rebuild around a new quarterback. For now, the focus is on securing the top draft spot, but it’s clear: the Raiders have a long road ahead in terms of rebuilding.
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