Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll believes in building the trenches. Superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby has long been the biggest threat on the defensive line. Both Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson are playing quality football this season, but their long-term futures remain in question.
General manager John Spytek could target a pass rusher in the 2026 NFL draft. That’s precisely how the Raiders decide to utilize their first-round selection in the latest mock scenario from The Draft Network, which has Spytek selecting Auburn Tigers defensive end Keldric Faulk.
“The Las Vegas Raiders need to pair Maxx Crosby with another game-changing defensive lineman,” The Draft Network wrote. “The Christian Wilkins gamble backfired miserably, and Malcolm Koonce is on a one-year contract. Keldrick Faulk is a versatile defensive end with pro-ready size, power, and speed.”
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Faulk is a big-time prospect. The Highland Home, Alabama native registered a sack in Auburn’s opener this year, a victory over Baylor. The Tigers were on a bye this past weekend, but Faulk had another sack in their latest contest, a hard-fought defeat to Oklahoma.
As TDN mentioned, Koonce is on an expiring contract. Spytek will have to make a decision regarding Wilson’s fifth-year contract next offseason. The current estimation is that it’ll be declined, placing Wilson in a contract year in 2026. EDGE could be a big need for the Raiders opposite Crosby. Faulk is an elite prospect at the position.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders land help for Maxx Crosby in latest 2026 NFL mock draft