Raiders insider names most important rookie, and it’s not Fernando Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders have plenty of reasons for optimism about the future. Las Vegas made some big moves this offseason, headlined by adding a franchise quarterback in Fernando Mendoza. But one Raiders reporter believes that Mendoza may not be the most impactful rookie on the team this fall.

Sports Illustrated’s Fernando Alfaro-Donis made the bold claim that defensive back Treydan Stukes is the most important rookie on the Raiders in 2026.

“Stukes is the most important rookie because he’ll be responsible for setting the tone and making things difficult for opposing offenses,” Alfaro-Donis wrote. “He has the speed and length to contest deep passes, but his greatest strength is his physicality and superb tackling.”

Las Vegas selected Stukes in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Raiders traded for veteran Taron Johnson back in March to hold down their nickel cornerback spot in 2026. But Alfaro-Donis argued that Stukes could overtake Johnson because of his youth and potentially higher upside.

“The Raiders can afford to pin their defenders deep with the defensive line they have, and Stukes roaming the intermediate area of the field,” Alfaro-Donis added. “He’s smart and transitions from coverage to coverage smoothly, which means once that ball gets out of the quarterback’s hands, Stukes will be one of the first players to tackle.”

However, one big question mark for Stukes is his injury history. He suffered a season-ending ACL tear during the 2024 college football season. That did not stop him from starting 10 games during his breakout 2025 campaign. but it does create questions about his longevity.

Raiders fans should keep an eye on Stukes throughout OTAs, mandatory minicamp, and training camp this summer.

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