The Las Vegas Raiders 2026 second year class is poised to reshape the roster as young talent matures and veteran presence stabilizes the lineup.
For fans tracking early career prospects, these second year players offer the clearest paths to immediate impact in the 2026 season and beyond.
| Player | Position | 2025 Role | 2026 Outlook | Key Development Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jaylen Waddle | WR | Starter, 1,200+ yards | Elevated Offensive Leader | Red zone efficiency, route versatility |
| Maxx Crosby | DE | Starter, 12 sacks | Edge Setter and Mentor | Pass rush moves, leadership in the room |
| Hunter Renfrow | WR | Starter, slot specialist | Deep Threat and Returner | Off route windows, punt return explosiveness |
| Chandler Jones | LB | Rotational, strong pass rusher | Full-time starter and disruptor | Run fits, coverage consistency |
Offensive Weapons to Watch in 2026
Jaylen Waddle as the Primary Target
As a second year wideout entering his breakout window, Jaylen Waddle will command more volume and quarterback trust in 2026.
Expect improved red zone usage, tougher press coverage assignments, and a larger share of route combinations designed for his vertical speed.
Hunter Renfrow and Slot Versatility
Renfrow’s precise route running and return ability make him a dual threat who can alter field position and sustain drives.
Coaches will lean on him in compressed formations and for high-leverage third down conversions.
Defensive Standouts to Watch
Maxx Crosby Setting the Edge
With another added sack in his second season, Crosby becomes the anchor of the defensive line and a clubhouse leader.
His rush lane discipline and pursuit angles will shape how the unit responds against spread offenses in 2026.
Chandler Jones Making the Leap
Moving from rotational duty to a primary pass rusher, Jones must refine his pad level and hand placement to thrive against elite tackles.
Consistent inside leverage and high motor will define his value on high downs.
Special Teams Impact Players
Coverage Unit Reliability
Second year performers who earned trust in 2025 will solidify identities as specialists in tackling and lane pursuit.
Consistency in open field hits and fair catch coverage will be critical against physical road opponents.
Key Takeaways for Raiders Fans
- Jaylen Waddle and Hunter Renfrow are expected to expand their roles as primary offensive weapons.
- Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones must convert second year momentum into consistent starting performance.
- Special teams growth will depend on the continued development of these second year contributors.
- Training camp and preseason performances will clarify deeper on the depth chart.
- Scheme fit, coaching trust, and health will determine how quickly these players become indispensable.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which second year Raiders are most likely to start in 2026?
Jaylen Waddle, Hunter Renfrow, and Maxx Crosby are strong candidates to start, while Chandler Jones could compete for a starting linebacker role.
How will the 2026 offensive scheme leverage these players?
The Raiders will emphasize vertical concepts for Waddle and Renfrow while using Crosby to generate pressure that creates intermediate windows.
What benchmarks should fans watch for in training camp? Look for Waddle’s contested catch rate, Renfrow’s alignment variety, Crosby’s pass rush win rate, and Jones’s run fit execution against scout teams. Could second year departures or injuries reshape the 2026 outlook?
Yes, unexpected exits or injuries could accelerate the timeline for younger backups or rookie contributions in key packages.