While Kubiak is the new cornerstone the Raiders will be built around, the next franchise-changing decision is quickly approaching; The Raiders hold the No. 1 pick in the April draft.
After the pivot to quarterback Geno Smith failed, in part leading to the firing of coach Pete Carroll after one season, there is a dire need for a franchise QB in Las Vegas. Owner Mark Davis mentioned that following the press conference.
“It came down to where we are this year, with the first pick in the draft and understanding that there’s a good chance we’ll go on the offensive side of the ball,” Davis said of the decision to hire an offensive specialist in Kubiak, per ESPN’s Ryan McFadden .
While Davis left the team’s target at the top of the draft as more general on one side of the ball, Kubiak didn’t take the bait at all.
Asked twice about the pick and possibly using it on Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, Kubiak stayed focused on the process, noting there is “a lot of tape to watch” before deciding who to draft.
“What an opportunity,” he added of already being on the clock. “To get to go explore this draft, and we’ll come to that conclusion here soon. There’s a lot of work to be done, but it’s another opportunity to make the roster better. Not only do you have the first overall pick, but you’re picking early in all the other rounds as well. Looking forward to starting that process.”
Given the current state of the Raiders, they will need every advantage they can get when picking early in the rounds.
Las Vegas was operating with a massive talent shortage in 2025. After finishing last in points and yards in offense, the only stars that stand out are Jeanty, who Kubiak said he’s “really excited” about, and Bowers, who he noted could be one of the best receivers — not just in tight ends — in the league. Add in a potential No. 1 overall offensive pick and the Raiders should have a great starting trio, but the rest of that side of the ball will greatly require a rebuild in the form of Kubiak, who said he will serve as the playmaker.
While the team’s defense was the better performing unit last season (but only marginally 25th in points allowed), questions still surround Crosby’s future as trade buzz has been mounting for the five-time Pro Bowler. Kubiak, for his part, plans to keep Crosby in Sin City.
“We want him to be a part of our success going forward,” Kubiak said. “There’s no doubt about it. He’s one of the best players in the NFL. So it’s a no-brainer to get to work with Maxx and see him continue to be successful with this organization.”