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Las Vegas Raiders training camp showcases rookies and roster changes
The Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2026 preseason with quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall draft pick, drawing most of the media focus. Coach Klint Kubiak said early hiccups are expected and expressed confidence in Mendoza’s development, noting the presence of veteran Kirk Cousins to aid his learning.
Other rookies highlighted include wide receiver Malik Benson, a sixth‑round pick earning reps and building a rapport with Mendoza, running back Mike Washington Jr., a fourth‑round selection expected to back up Ashton Jeanty, and cornerback Hezekiah Masses, who practiced with starters. Defensive end Kwity Paye, a former first‑round pick, is being moved around the defensive line—playing SAM linebacker, “Big End,” and 3‑technique—in the Raiders’ new 3‑4 scheme.
The team also made roster moves, waiving tight end Zack Kuntz and safety Tanner Wall while signing veteran tight end Chris Myarick. Tight end Brock Bowers, a former top draft pick, has been dominating camp drills. In a related note, the Denver Broncos’ first‑round pick Jahdae Barron is struggling in training camp, a development welcomed by Raiders fans.
Entities
Aidan O'Connell · Chris Myarick · Fernando Mendoza · John Spytek · Jonah Laulu · Klint Kubiak · Kwity Paye · Las Vegas Raiders · Malik Benson
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Broncos first‑round pick Jahdae Barron is struggling in training camp and is viewed as a potential bust. justblogbaby.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Coach Klint Kubiak said he is not concerned about Mendoza's early struggles. www.si.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Running back Mike Washington Jr. was a fourth‑round pick expected to back up Ashton Jeanty. mymotherlode.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Fernando Mendoza is the No. 1 overall draft pick for the Raiders and has shown early hiccups in training camp. mymotherlode.com · www.winnipegfreepress.com · www.si.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defensive end Kwity Paye is being used at SAM linebacker, “Big End,” and 3‑technique in the Raiders’ 3‑4 defense. justblogbaby.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Raiders waived tight end Zack Kuntz and safety Tanner Wall and signed veteran tight end Chris Myarick. heavy.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Wide receiver Malik Benson, a sixth‑round pick, is receiving reps and has built a rapport with Mendoza. mymotherlode.com · www.winnipegfreepress.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Tight end Brock Bowers is dominating Raiders training camp drills. heavy.com