2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jordan Reid's Predictions for 257 Prospects The 2026 NFL draft, set to begin on Thursday from Pittsburgh at 8 p.m. ET, has prompted Jordan Reid to release his comprehensive seven-round mock draft. The exercise covers 257 prospects, reflecting his analysis of the class based on conversations with league insiders, scouting reports, and each team’s positional needs. While no trades are projected, Reid acknowledges the potential for surprises and intrigue as teams navigate their draft strategies. The Las Vegas Raiders, selecting first overall, are expected to prioritize a franchise quarterback. Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, is the top choice. Mendoza’s combination of size, arm strength, and decision-making ability positions him as a long-term starter. His resilience through adversity in 2025, culminating in an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and a 16-0 season, solidifies his status as the No. 1 pick. The Raiders’ search for a quarterback has been ongoing, and Mendoza’s performance makes him an ideal fit. The New York Jets, selecting third, face a decision between defensive edge rushers Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech). Reid favors Reese for his upside despite Bailey’s current polish. Reese’s explosive power and versatility as a linebacker or edge rusher align with the Jets’ rebuild, offering a foundational player they can build a scheme around. The Arizona Cardinals, picking fourth, aim to address their offensive line struggles. Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, is projected to fill the right side. His ability to protect the quarterback and improve the team’s run blocking, which ranked last in the NFL last season, makes him a critical addition.#las_vegas_raiders #new_york_jets #nfl_draft #fernando_mendoza #jordan_reid
Arizona Cardinals Target Multiple Prospects in 2026 NFL Draft The Arizona Cardinals, after releasing Kyler Murray, face a critical need for a franchise quarterback as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins April 23. The team’s draft strategy includes seven selections, spanning from the third overall pick to the 217th, with the potential to address multiple positional gaps. While the quarterback position remains their top priority, the Cardinals also seek help at running back, guard, right tackle, inside linebacker, defensive tackle, and slot receiver. The Cardinals’ first-round pick, at No. 3, is among the most coveted in the draft, but the landscape for quarterbacks is limited. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, is expected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. Scouts believe there is little depth behind Mendoza at the position, making it unlikely the Cardinals will find a high-grade quarterback in the early rounds. However, the team’s general manager, Monti Ossenfort, could explore trading down from the third pick to accumulate more assets or make strategic moves with their remaining selections. Beyond quarterback, the Cardinals’ needs include a reliable right tackle to complement Paris Johnson Jr., a versatile edge rusher to bolster their defensive line, and a slot receiver to upgrade their passing game. The draft class offers several options across all rounds, with the following prospects standing out for each of the team’s picks: Round 2 (Pick 34): Max Iheanachor, an offensive tackle from Arizona State, is a local standout who could step in as a Week 1 starter at right tackle if the Cardinals pass on Francis Mauigoa in Round 1. T.J.#las_vegas_raiders #arizona_cardinals #kyler_murray #fernando_mendoza #monti_ossenfort
2026 NFL Mock Draft: Schrager Projects 32 First-Round Picks The 2026 NFL draft is shaping up as one of the most anticipated events in league history, with 32 first-round selections projected by ESPN analyst Schrager based on current conversations with teams and prospects. While the final order remains fluid, the mock draft highlights key trends, team needs, and potential blockbuster trades. The Raiders, Giants, and Chiefs are among the teams making bold moves, while defensive upgrades and offensive firepower remain central priorities. The Las Vegas Raiders, bolstered by the arrival of quarterback Kirk Cousins, are expected to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza with the first pick. Mendoza, a franchise-caliber quarterback with elite arm strength and decision-making, is seen as the ideal fit for Cousins’ system. The Raiders’ strategy will focus on building a supporting cast around Mendoza, with nine additional first-round picks to address needs at edge rusher, linebacker, and offensive line. New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas is targeting David Bailey, a polished edge rusher from Texas Tech, to complement Cousins’ presence. Bailey’s 14.5 sacks in 2025 and proven pass-rushing ability make him a top-tier option, though the Jets may also consider Ohio State’s Arvell Reese if he remains available. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, facing a brutal NFC West schedule, are prioritizing defensive upgrades. Reese, a versatile edge rusher with elite athleticism, is projected to be their second pick. His potential to disrupt opposing offenses aligns with Arizona’s need for a generational pass-rushing talent. Tennessee Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi has signaled a preference for players with “waves” of pass-rushing ability, which could influence their selection of either Bailey or Reese.#las_vegas_raiders #arizona_cardinals #new_york_jets #2026_nfl_draft #espn_analyst_schrager
2026 NFL Mock Draft: Kiper, Miller, Reid, Yates on Rounds 1-3 The 2026 NFL mock draft, featuring insights from Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates, highlights the strategic selections and reasoning behind the top 100 picks in the first three rounds. The exercise, conducted as a rotating mock draft, emphasizes the analysts’ personal preferences and rankings rather than projected outcomes, with no trades considered. Each analyst acted as a general manager, using their individual evaluations and the latest scouting trends to guide their choices. The results reflect a blend of need, potential, and team-specific priorities, offering a glimpse into how teams might approach the draft. The Las Vegas Raiders, needing a quarterback solution, selected Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, as their top pick. Kiper argued that Mendoza’s tools make him a franchise quarterback, despite the debate over early-pick quarterbacks. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, having signed Elijah Wilkinson, opted for Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, to address their long-term needs at right tackle. Reid emphasized Mauigoa’s readiness to start immediately, calling him the top tackle in the class. The Tennessee Titans, bolstered by their offseason pass-rush additions, chose David Bailey, an edge rusher from Texas Tech, for their 4th pick. Yates highlighted Bailey’s 14.5 sacks in 2025 as a key asset for a young roster. The New York Giants, despite Kiper’s skepticism about early-pick running backs, selected Jeremiyah Love, a dynamic runner from Notre Dame, to elevate their offense. Love’s versatility as a playmaker was cited as a critical upgrade for quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Cleveland Browns, focusing on youth at skill positions, took Makai Lemon, a wide receiver from USC, as their 6th pick.#las_vegas_raiders #field_yates #mel_kiper_jr #matt_miller #jordan_reid
Tom Brady has confirmed he has inquired about the NFL’s policies regarding a potential return to the league as a player while maintaining his ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders, but he has no intention of coming back. The quarterback, who recently participated in a Fanatics flag football game, told CNBC Sport that the NFL does not favor the idea of a player-ownership dual role. Brady explained that he has explored the possibility of returning to the league while retaining his minority ownership in the Raiders, but the NFL’s stance has made it clear such a scenario is unlikely. “They don’t like that idea very much,” Brady said during an interview promoting his World Cup ad campaign with Ferrero. He emphasized that he is “very happily retired” and has no plans to re-enter professional football. An NFL spokesperson clarified that if Brady were to pursue a return, he would first need to divest his ownership stake in the Raiders. The league cited a 2023 policy prohibiting players or team employees from holding equity in a club. The spokesperson also noted that there would be “salary cap issues involving a player/owner,” further complicating any potential return. Despite his retirement, Brady remains involved with the Raiders in a “strategic advisory role.” Since acquiring a minority stake in the team, he has contributed to personnel and coaching decisions, though he described his role as informal. “I’m a minority owner. So, when you’re that, there’s really no job description,” he said. Brady expressed a desire to help the Raiders “bring the Raiders back to glory” and foster a “winning kind of a culture” in Las Vegas. While Brady acknowledged his enjoyment of playing in the flag football game, he reiterated that the experience reinforced his contentment with retirement.#las_vegas_raiders #nfl #tom_brady #ferrero #world_cup_ad_campaign
Las Vegas Raiders Add Linebacker Segun Olubi from Indianapolis Colts The Las Vegas Raiders added another linebacker on Monday, expected to play a key role on special teams. Segun Olubi, who spent the past four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts after graduating from San Diego State, is now part of the Raiders’ roster. Olubi, who grew up part of his childhood in Bullhead City, made a notable impact during the 2025 season by blocking a punt against the Raiders in Indianapolis. This play resulted in an ankle injury for punter AJ Cole. Olubi appeared in all 17 games for the Colts in 2025, recording 11 special teams tackles and a forced fumble. His performance earned him a spot among 13 players in the league who achieved at least 10 tackles and a forced fumble on special teams. Despite his contributions, Olubi saw limited defensive action, playing just six snaps on defense during the season. The move marks another addition to the Raiders’ roster as they continue to shape their team for the 2026 season. Olubi’s versatility and special teams expertise are expected to provide value as the team looks to strengthen its depth in key areas. His signing follows a busy week of free agency for the Raiders, during which they made several notable additions to their roster.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #san_diego_state #segun_olubi #bullhead_city
Segun Olubi, key Colts special teamer and linebacker, to Las Vegas in free agency INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts have lost another long-time member of their linebacker unit as free agency progressed, signaling a major shift in their defensive strategy. Veteran linebacker Segun Olubi, who had spent four seasons with the team, has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, a move that primarily affects the Colts’ special teams unit rather than their defensive depth. Olubi, 26, was a critical component of the Colts’ special teams operations, contributing significantly to their success in the kicking game. As a core player under coordinator Brian Mason, he recorded 11 special teams tackles during the 2025 season. His impact extended beyond tackles, as he forced a fumble and blocked a punt during the Colts’ dominant victory over the Raiders. These performances highlighted his reliability in high-pressure moments, particularly in the kicking game. Olubi’s contributions to special teams were consistent over his tenure with the Colts. In each of his three full seasons, he managed at least nine special-teams tackles, showcasing his ability to perform under various conditions. His 2024 season opener against Houston saw him block a punt, further solidifying his role as a key asset to the unit. However, his defensive contributions were limited. Despite his special teams success, Olubi’s role on defense was minimal. In 2023, he made one start in place of an injured Zaire Franklin and played a career-high 114 defensive snaps. However, in the subsequent two seasons, his defensive involvement dropped sharply. In 2025, he recorded just 27 defensive snaps, with all six of those coming in mop-up situations.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #zaire_franklin #segun_olubi #brian_mason
Raiders Sign Colts Free Agent Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have signed linebacker Segun Olubi, a free agent who previously played for the Indianapolis Colts. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the move, though details of the contract have not been disclosed. Olubi, who spent three seasons with the Colts, is now set to join the Raiders for the 2026 NFL season. Olubi became an unrestricted free agent after the Colts non-tendered him, a decision that allowed him to pursue opportunities with other teams. During his time with the Colts, he was a key contributor on special teams, playing over 300 snaps in each of the past three seasons. His role on special teams was consistent, with him participating in multiple phases of the game regularly. Defensively, Olubi’s playing time was limited. According to Pro Football Focus, he totaled just 142 career defensive snaps, with 115 of those coming in 2023. His defensive contributions were minimal compared to his special teams impact. The Colts’ linebacker corps has faced challenges this offseason, particularly after the trade of Zaire Franklin. The team’s most experienced linebacker at the position is Jaylon Carlies, who has accumulated just over 200 career defensive snaps. This lack of depth has left the Colts with a significant need at the position, prompting general manager Chris Ballard to prioritize addressing the linebacker room. Olubi’s departure from Indianapolis highlights the competitive nature of free agency, as teams like the Raiders saw an opportunity to bolster their roster. The Colts’ decision to non-tender him may have been a strategic move to manage salary cap space, but it left them without a reliable option at the linebacker position.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #chris_ballard
Las Vegas Raiders Sign Former Colts LB Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Segun Olubi, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 26-year-old player, standing 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 233 pounds, brings four seasons of NFL experience to the team. During his time with the Colts, Olubi recorded 50 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and one interception across 51 career games. Olubi will serve as a depth player and key contributor on special teams for the Raiders. A former undrafted prospect from San Diego State, he is known for his speed, highlighted by a 4.45 40-yard dash time. His athleticism was recently showcased when he blocked a punt by AJ Cole during a game against the Raiders in 2025. Raiders public relations highlighted additional details about Olubi’s performance: in 2025, he tallied 11 total tackles and one forced fumble on special teams, joining an elite group of 13 NFL players who achieved 10+ tackles and a forced fumble in that category. Since the 2023 season, he has accumulated 21 solo special teams tackles, ranking ninth in the league. Over his time with the Colts from 2022 to 2025, he recorded 30 total special teams tackles, the highest on the team during that period. Raiders special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis expressed enthusiasm about the addition, noting Olubi’s potential to strengthen the unit. Olubi himself shared his excitement for joining the team, stating, “What’s up Raider Nation, super excited to get to work man. I love it out here, it’s a beautiful place. Time to do it.” Raiders general manager John Spytek emphasized an open-minded approach to free agency, aiming to build a competitive roster.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #adam_schefter #segun_olubi #john_spytek
Raiders Sign LB Segun Olubi The Las Vegas Raiders have officially signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Segun Olubi, marking a significant addition to their defensive roster. The move was announced on Monday, signaling the team’s continued efforts to bolster its secondary and special teams units ahead of the 2026 season. Olubi, who spent the past four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the Silver and Black. During his time with the Colts from 2022 to 2025, Olubi appeared in 51 regular-season games, contributing 20 tackles (14 solo), one pass defensed, one interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two blocked punts. His impact extended beyond the defensive line, as he recorded 30 tackles on special teams, the highest total among Colts players during that span. In 2025, Olubi played in all 17 games, adding 11 special teams tackles, one forced fumble, and one blocked punt. His performance earned him recognition as one of just 13 NFL players to record 10-plus tackles and one forced fumble on special teams in 2025. Olubi’s collegiate career began at San Diego State, where he played in 21 games from 2020 to 2021. During that time, he tallied 68 tackles (34 solo), four tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, two passes defensed, one interception returned for a touchdown, and two forced fumbles. Prior to San Diego State, he spent time at Harding University, Saddlebrook College, and the College of Idaho, laying the foundation for his eventual NFL career. The Raiders’ decision to sign Olubi reflects their strategic approach to free agency, which has focused on acquiring players with proven ability to contribute immediately.#las_vegas_raiders #indianapolis_colts #san_diego_state #segun_olubi #college_of_idaho
Former Detroit Lions Cornerback Amik Robertson Signs With Washington Commanders Another key member of the Detroit Lions’ secondary has moved on in free agency. Veteran cornerback Amik Robertson has agreed to a two-year, $16 million contract with the Washington Commanders, including $9.3 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The deal marks the end of Robertson’s two-season tenure with the Lions, during which he became a reliable contributor to the team’s defensive backfield. Robertson joined the Lions ahead of the 2024 season after starting his NFL career with the Las Vegas Raiders, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over his time in Detroit, he demonstrated versatility as a defensive back, capable of playing both outside corner and in the slot. In 34 games with the Lions, he recorded 52 total tackles and 12 passes defended in 2025 alone, appearing in all 17 games and starting 10 of them. His ability to adapt to different roles made him a valuable asset to the team’s defensive strategy. The Commanders’ decision to sign Robertson adds depth to their secondary, particularly as the team looks to strengthen its defensive options for the 2026 season. At 27 years old, Robertson is entering his prime, bringing a combination of experience and physicality to a unit that has been rebuilding. His presence should provide the Commanders with additional flexibility in coverage schemes and situational matchups. For the Lions, Robertson’s departure signals another transition in their secondary as general manager Brad Holmes reshapes the roster ahead of the 2026 season.#las_vegas_raiders #washington_commanders #detroit_lions #brad_holmes #amik_robertson
Detroit Lions Sign Free-Agent Center Cade Mays The Detroit Lions have finalized a three-year, $25 million contract with free-agent center Cade Mays, according to a league source speaking to The Detroit News. The deal, which includes $14 million in guaranteed money, marks Mays as the eighth-highest paid center in the NFL with an average annual value of $8.3 million. This signing is seen as a significant move for Lions general manager Brad Holmes, who had previously identified Mays as a top target in the offseason. Mays, 26, was among the most sought-after centers in free agency. His contract comes amid a challenging market for the position, as several high-profile players either re-signed with their current teams or signed with other franchises. For instance, Connor McGovern, another top target, re-signed with the Buffalo Bills just days before free agency closed. Meanwhile, Tyler Linderbaum, widely regarded as the top center available, is expected to join the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $81 million deal. Mays’ professional journey began with his college careers at Georgia and Tennessee. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. Over his four seasons with the team, Mays has started 27 games, including 12 contests during the 2025 season. His signing allows the Lions to continue developing Tate Ratledge at right guard without being forced to move him to a different position. The deal underscores the Lions’ commitment to strengthening their offensive line, a critical area for their success. With Mays joining the roster, the team aims to build a more stable and versatile unit capable of supporting their quarterback and protecting the ball carrier.#las_vegas_raiders #detroit_lions #cade_mays #brad_holmes #tate_ratledge
Raiders Acquire Bills' Taron Johnson in Trade The Las Vegas Raiders have completed a trade to acquire cornerback Taron Johnson from the Buffalo Bills, preventing him from becoming a free agent. The deal was finalized ahead of the NFL's trade deadline, with the Bills receiving a sixth-round draft pick in exchange for Johnson’s services. The Raiders, who had been monitoring the situation, stepped in to secure the veteran defender before he could enter the open market. Johnson, a 29-year-old cornerback, spent his entire NFL career with the Bills after being selected in the fourth round of the 2018 draft. Over his tenure with Buffalo, he made 113 regular-season appearances, including 87 starts. His performance earned him a spot on the second-team All-Pro list in 2023, highlighting his impact on the field. The trade includes financial terms tied to Johnson’s contract, which runs through the 2027 season. For the 2026 season, he is scheduled to earn a base salary of $8.1 million. Additionally, Johnson received a $150,000 workout bonus and a total of $510,000 in per-game roster bonuses. These incentives are part of the compensation package negotiated as part of the trade agreement. The transaction is set to become official on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. ET, coinciding with the start of the new NFL league year. This move underscores the Raiders’ commitment to strengthening their defensive roster, while the Bills aim to manage their cap space and rebuild their secondary. Johnson’s arrival in Las Vegas is expected to provide immediate depth and experience to the Raiders’ defense, which has been a focal point of their recent roster adjustments.#trade_deadline #buffalo_bills #taron_johnson #las_vegas_raiders #nfl
Tom Brady Reportedly Wouldn't Trade Maxx Crosby To Patriots The Las Vegas Raiders, owned in part by Tom Brady, reportedly refused to trade defensive end Maxx Crosby to the New England Patriots, according to sources. Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, allegedly played a key role in keeping the Pro Bowl pass rusher from joining his former team. The decision came after the Raiders sent Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in a blockbuster trade, a move that left the Patriots without a chance to acquire the player. Crosby, a seven-time Pro Bowler with 69.5 sacks in seven seasons with the Raiders, was a top target for the Patriots, who had previously sought him as part of their efforts to bolster their defense. However, Brady’s influence reportedly ensured the Raiders prioritized a different destination for Crosby. Instead, the Raiders traded him to the Ravens for the No. 14 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and a 2027 first-round selection. This package was deemed too valuable for the Patriots to match, as they held the No. 31 pick in the 2024 draft and lacked the resources to compete with other teams. The Raiders leveraged their position to secure the highest return for Crosby, with multiple teams showing interest. The Dallas Cowboys, for example, were willing to offer the No. 12 pick, a future second-round selection, and a veteran player. However, the Cowboys set a firm limit after trading first- and second-round picks for defensive lineman Quinnen Williams in 2025. The Chicago Bears also expressed interest but were not considered serious contenders in the bidding. Crosby’s move to Baltimore strengthens the Ravens’ defense, providing them with a dominant edge rusher who has consistently recorded at least 20 quarterback hits in five consecutive Pro Bowl seasons.#maxx_crosby #las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #new_england_patriots #tom_brady
NFL Trade Tracker: Every Major Offseason Deal Graded The NFL offseason has already been marked by significant player movement, with several high-profile trades finalized before free agency begins. Teams across the league have made strategic moves to reshape their rosters, and the CBS Sports staff has evaluated each deal to determine its impact. With the new league year set to start on March 11, trades can officially become final, but the groundwork has already been laid. The Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Los Angeles Rams have been among the most active teams, making bold decisions to bolster their squads. The Ravens secured Maxx Crosby, one of the league’s premier pass rushers, by trading two first-round picks to the Las Vegas Raiders. Crosby, who has recorded 69.5 sacks in 110 career games, is a versatile and durable defensive end. His trade to Baltimore was seen as a sign of the Ravens’ commitment to contending for a Super Bowl, despite the challenges of transitioning to a first-year head coach. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots sent veteran center Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round pick. Bradbury, a 2019 first-round pick for the Minnesota Vikings, brings experience to a Bears offensive line that lost Drew Dalman to retirement. The Patriots, in turn, aim to upgrade their left guard position by moving Jared Wilson back to center. The Bears also acquired wide receiver DJ Moore from the Buffalo Bills, trading a second-round pick for the veteran target and a fifth-round pick. Moore, who is guaranteed $15.5 million of his 2028 salary, will join Josh Allen in Buffalo. The Bills, meanwhile, are shifting toward younger weapons in their offense.#buffalo_bills #las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #los_angeles_rams #new_england_patriots
Jalen Carter Trade Rumors Are Ramping Up Before Free Agency The Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive tackle, Jalen Carter, has become a focal point of trade speculation as free agency approaches. The 25-year-old, selected ninth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, is a two-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with 108 total tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles over the past three seasons. Despite his impressive production, the Eagles’ front office faces a critical decision: whether to commit to a long-term contract with Carter or explore a trade while his market value remains high. Trade rumors intensified this week after a social media post by “Rickey Scoops” claimed the Eagles are considering trading Carter for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. The post, which referenced the user’s prior accuracy in predicting the Micah Parsons trade and John Harbaugh’s potential coaching role with the New York Giants, suggested Philadelphia is actively pursuing Crosby. The Raiders, meanwhile, have been linked to Philadelphia as a potential landing spot for Crosby, adding fuel to the speculation. However, Eagles fans have strongly opposed the idea of trading Carter. Many argue that the team should prioritize retaining its young, dominant defensive tackle, especially given his rookie contract and the high cost of acquiring a veteran like Crosby. One fan wrote, “If they trade 25-year-old Jalen Carter for 29-year-old Maxx Crosby, my page is going to be suspended.” Another commented, “Eagles not offering Jalen Carter. That makes absolutely no sense. Trade a young dominant DT on a rookie contract for a 29-year-old edge making 30+ mil? Stop the cap man.#philadelphia_eagles #jalen_carter #maxx_crosby #las_vegas_raiders #rickey_scoops
Kenneth Walker III potential landing spots: Where will Super Bowl LX MVP play in 2026? The reigning Super Bowl MVP is entering free agency after the Seattle Seahawks declined to use the franchise tag on him ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. Unless an agreement is reached before free agency begins next week, Walker will seek a new team in the open market. With his career performance and potential impact, speculation is growing about where the running back might land in 2026. Carolina Panthers: Despite head coach Dave Canales’ emphasis on a tandem backfield with Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle emerged as the team’s most productive rusher in 2025, tallying 1,076 yards and six touchdowns. Dowdle is also set to hit free agency, creating a need for a replacement. The Panthers’ rushing attack ranked 19th in the league, and with quarterback Bryce Young facing another critical season, adding a dynamic back like Walker could address both gaps. Canales’ familiarity with Walker, having worked with him during his rookie season in Seattle, adds a layer of connection. However, the Panthers will need to manage their cap space, as Walker is expected to command around $9 million annually. Las Vegas Raiders: Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak now leads the Raiders, and he has expressed interest in pairing a running mate with 2025 first-rounder Ashton Jeanty. While the Raiders face significant needs, particularly on the offensive line, pairing Walker with Kubiak could create a high-impact tandem. If quarterback Fernando Mendoza is to succeed, having a reliable back like Walker would be crucial. Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals’ season collapsed after James Conner suffered a season-ending injury, highlighting their reliance on the veteran back.#las_vegas_raiders #seattle_seahawks #carolina_panthers #kenneth_walker_iii #dave_canales
