Raiders vs. Giants: High-Stakes Showdown Could Decide 2026 NFL Draft’s Top Quarterback

The Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants, both holding 2-13 records, face off in a critical Sunday matchup with significant implications for the 2026 NFL Draft. The losing team is expected to gain a strong chance at the No. 1 overall pick, making the game pivotal for their rebuilding plans and long-term quarterback strategies.

Maxx Crosby Focuses on Excellence While the Raiders Struggle With Quarterback Performance

Despite the stakes, Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby is unconcerned with draft positioning. Crosby emphasized that his priority is excelling at his position and leading his team on the field, rather than worrying about draft outcomes. “My job is to be the best defensive end in the world,” he stated, highlighting his focus on personal performance and team leadership rather than external factors.

The Raiders’ potential draft advantage is influenced by their underwhelming quarterback performance this season. Veteran Geno Smith, brought in during the offseason, has struggled, completing 67.1% of his passes for 2,849 yards with 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions in 14 starts. His interception total ties for the league lead, underscoring the team’s need for a long-term solution at quarterback.

Raiders Could Draft Top Quarterback While Giants Rely on Rookie Jaxson Dart

If the Raiders lose, the No. 1 overall pick would allow them to target the top quarterback in the upcoming draft, as Smith does not appear to be the franchise’s long-term answer. This selection could reshape the team’s future, offering a chance to build around a young and talented quarterback while addressing ongoing offensive challenges.

Meanwhile, the Giants seem to have a promising young signal-caller in rookie Jaxson Dart. Despite injuries to key teammates, Dart has shown potential, completing 62.1% of his passes for 1,835 yards with 13 touchdowns and five interceptions while adding 407 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns. The Sunday matchup, scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET, will test both teams’ resilience and may determine which franchise secures the draft’s top prospect.