The Las Vegas Raiders have a 2-8 record this season and they need to seriously consider drafting a Geno Smith replacement in the 2026 NFL Draft. Smith has not played up to standards this season.
USATSI 27615680 168400517 lowres
Nov 17, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa (97) pressures Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The last time that the Raiders drafted a quarterback in the first round was the 2007 NFL Draft with selecting JaMarcus Russell first overall. This is a golden chance for Las Vegas to actually draft a quarterback in the first round this season. However, will the Raiders actually pass on a quarterback in the first round and select someone else?
CBS Sports Mock Draft Has the Las Vegas Raiders Passing On a Geno Smith Replacement
USATSI 27615470 168400517 lowres
Nov 17, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) runs with the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Mike Renner of CBS Sports created his latest 2026 NFL mock draft. It is not a secret that the biggest need for the Raiders this offseason will be drafting a quarterback. Well, Renner believes that Las Vegas will not draft a quarterback in the first round of the draft for now.
Instead, he has them selecting Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese with the sixth overall pick in his latest mock draft. Renner said,
“Reese is the perfect modern hybrid linebacker to give a defensive coordinator flexibility. He looks just as comfortable rushing the passer as he does dropping deep into coverage. And he’s got the body type to easily do both.”
Reese would no doubt be another good choice for the Las Vegas defense. Maxx Crosby could use some more help on the defense as well. He is 6’3″ and weighs 243 lbs. What is interesting is that Reese is from Cleveland, Ohio, and maybe he will get drafted by his hometown team, the Cleveland Browns, but they will probably lean towards drafting a quarterback anyways.
Reese has 58 tackles, two pass deflections, and 6.5 sacks. He could be a game-wrecker at the next level. This could potentially be another standout Buckeyes defensive player at the next level. With that being said, the Raiders may have to go with quarterback at sixth overall rather than best player available.
For More Great Football Content
Follow me on Twitter at @glennkaplan13 more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and professional football, click here!