Raiders rank defensive position groups before 2026 season kickoff

The Raiders enter the 2026 NFL season with a varied defensive outlook across five key position groups. Maxx Crosby and Kwity Paye anchor an edge rusher unit ranked as the team’s strongest despite ongoing trade speculation surrounding Crosby. The defensive interior relies on a rotation featuring Tonka Hemingway and Adam Butler, while Jeremy Chinn and Treydan Stukes lead a safety group that prioritizes youthful development. Depth concerns persist at the linebacker position behind starters Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, providing little buffer against potential injuries. The cornerback room relies on the experience of Eric Stokes and Taron Johnson, though team management recently added Darrell Luter to bolster depth. These rankings serve as a baseline for the team’s defensive personnel as regular season play approaches.

• 7:12 PMYahoo Sports — Ranking Raiders defensive position groups ahead of start of 2026 season