A Fresh Start: Early Predictions for the Raiders' 2026 Season

Introduction: A Transformational Year

The excitement surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders is palpable as they enter a pivotal season marked by significant change. With the selection of quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the stage is set for a new beginning. But what can fans realistically expect from this rebuilding season? Here's my take on the Raiders' 2026 schedule and what it might mean for the organization moving forward.

Context: Rebuilding the Raiders

This offseason has drummed up quite a bit of enthusiasm in Raider Nation, especially with the anticipation surrounding Mendoza. However, it's crucial to temper that excitement; starting a rookie quarterback often comes with its challenges. Mendoza's journey will be a story to watch closely, but there's no guarantee he'll start in Week 1, and the team seems to be gearing up for a gradual rebuild.

As our partners at FanDuel Sportsbook suggest, the Raiders' win total is set at just 5.5 games, indicating that expectations might be low this season. As we break down the games on the schedule, I'll make predictions on how the Raiders might perform, keeping in mind their current roster and the challenges ahead.

Week-by-Week Predictions

Week 1: vs. Miami Dolphins

Prediction: Win

The Dolphins, currently in a rebuild mode themselves, are expected to struggle this season. The Raiders should capitalize on this home field advantage to start strong.

Week 2: @ Los Angeles Chargers

Prediction: Loss

The Raiders have historically struggled against the Chargers, especially in Los Angeles, and it's hard to foresee them breaking that trend against a strong opponent this early in the season.

Week 3: @ New Orleans Saints

Prediction: Loss

New Orleans has shown promise and may very well be ahead of Las Vegas in their respective rebuilding phases. Expect the Raiders to falter in this matchup.

Week 4: vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Prediction: Win

If quarterback Patrick Mahomes is still recovering from injury, this could present an unexpected opportunity for the Raiders to secure a win.

Week 5: @ New England Patriots

Prediction: Loss

Facing a well-rounded Patriots team coming off a Super Bowl appearance will be a steep hill to climb. Expect them to outmatch the Raiders.

Week 6: vs. Buffalo Bills

Prediction: Loss

Despite their Super Bowl window closing, the Bills still possess a strong roster. A young Raiders team is unlikely to pull off the upset here.

Week 7: vs. Los Angeles Rams

Prediction: Loss

The Rams, fresh off a playoff run, will likely outperform the Raiders in this home game.

Week 8: @ New York Jets

Prediction: Win

If the Raiders can leverage their coaching strategies against a struggling Jets team, a road win could be possible.

Week 9: @ San Francisco 49ers

Prediction: Loss

An experienced 49ers team with plenty of talent should be able to handle a young Raiders squad.

Week 10: vs. Seattle Seahawks

Prediction: Loss

Even with insider knowledge, going up against a Seahawks team likely to be more competitive post-draft could spell trouble for Vegas.

Week 11: @ Denver Broncos

Prediction: Loss

Competing against an AFC Championship caliber team at home makes this matchup intimidating.

Week 12: @ Cleveland Browns

Prediction: Win

The Browns' quarterback situation remains unstable, potentially providing the Raiders a much-needed road win.

Week 13: Bye

Byes can shake up momentum, but this late bye gives the coaching staff time to reassess its game plan, especially when Mendoza steps into the lineup.

Week 14: vs. Los Angeles Chargers

Prediction: Loss

With the Chargers' talent likely outmatching the Raiders, this game may not go well for the home team.

Week 15: vs. Denver Broncos

Prediction: Loss

Expectations will be high on the Broncos after last year's strong performance and depth.

Week 16: vs. Tennessee Titans

Prediction: Win

This matchup could provide a much-needed victory for Las Vegas if they can find their footing.

Week 17: @ Arizona Cardinals

Prediction: Win

The Cardinals are anticipated to encounter growing pains this season, giving the Raiders a solid chance to snag this one.

Week 18: @ Kansas City Chiefs

Prediction: Loss

If Mahomes is in form, it would be challenging for the Raiders to capture a victory here.

Final Record Prediction

6-11: While this doesn't satisfy the demands of hungry fans, it's a realistic expectation for a team in transition. Doubling last year's win total could be a solid start for Mendoza's era, encouraging progress as they aim for better seasons ahead.