INDIANAPOLIS – Las Vegas Raiders General Manager John Spytek spoke at the NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday, covering multiple topics including the defense, the No. 1 pick, and the future of star pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
Rob Leonard Promotion:
Leonard, formerly the defensive line coach, takes over for Patrick Graham who left for the Pittsburgh Steelers in January. Spytek told reporters he recommended Leonard to new head coach Klint Kubiak. He said: Hey, we have a great D-Line coach in the building. I think you should interview him as a DC and then make your decision.
Leonard spent three seasons as Las Vegas defensive line coach, previously with the Baltimore Ravens. He is known as an excellent talent developer, helping players like Malcolm Koonce make significant leaps.
On Maxx Crosby:
Spytek addressed the trade rumors surrounding Maxx Crosby directly, stating that he plans on Crosby playing for the Raiders in 2026. Maxx is a core part of what we are building here, Spytek said. We plan on him being a Raider this season and for years to come.
The GM expressed optimism about building around the star pass rusher as the team looks to rebuild.
No. 1 Pick:
The Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Spytek described what he is looking for for a franchise quarterback: A leader, tough as hell. Somebody that loves to play football, maniacal preparer. Obviously, someone that can throw the ball well. I think just somebody that loves the game and will give everything to their teammates, a selfless person.
The Raiders have 10 picks in the draft and are expected to address multiple needs, most notably along the offensive line.
Walk the Plank: Finally, some clarity on the Maxx Crosby situation. The Raiders have been down this road before with star players requesting trades, but it sounds like the organization is committed to keeping their best player. Adding Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick gives them a quarterback to build around, and having Crosby on the other side of the ball makes Las Vegas a much more attractive destination for free agents. This feels like the beginning of something, not the end.
