The Raiders are set to prioritize playing inexperienced backups, including quarterbacks Aidan O’Connell and Kenny Pickett, as they aim for the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft when they face the Chiefs. Key players, including starting quarterback Geno Smith and stars Maxx Crosby and Brock Bowers, will sit out due to injuries. Coach Pete Carroll maintains the team’s struggles are not intentional, expressing hope for player development. The current draft system incentivizes losing, prompting discussions on potential reforms to encourage competitiveness among non-playoff teams.
