Raiders' Safety Draft Picks: Sparking Defense

0:00On April 3rd, the Las Vegas Raiders have a glaring hole at free safety heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, making it one of their top. Priorities. Their defense struggled with turnovers last season, lacking that true ballhawk to lock down the back end. With the 36 overall pick, they might trade back into the first round or grab a jam in round two. Draft experts point to a solid class of safety, though top tier guys like Ohio State's Caleb Downs are likely gone early. Oregon's Dylan Theaneman tops the list for the Raiders, projected around 18th overall after a blazing 4.3540 yard dash at, the Combine in 8 picks over 3 years. Fans and analysts see this as key to fixing the secondary's woes, with reactions heating up online about needing range and instincts over just box. Play. Prospects like Toledo's Emanuel McNeal Warren could slide to 36, bringing versatility, while LSU's AJ. Halsey offers ball skills with three interceptions last year.

1:00Deeper in the draft, TCU's Bud Clark stands out with 15 picks over four seasons and strong run defense, projected 89th overall, my. Personal favor for that hawk vibe. Arizona's Genesis Smith is right behind, always around the ball despite some drops. As the Raiders eye trades under John Spitec, this safety hall could spark their defense come next season. Keep watching those mock drafts evolve.