Raiders 2026 Outlook: Kubiak Era Brings Fantasy Shifts for Jeanty and Bowers

CBS Sports analyst Jamey Eisenberg has released a comprehensive fantasy football outlook for the Las Vegas Raiders’ 2026 season, identifying running back Ja’Tavion Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers as the team’s primary fantasy assets. The report projects that Jeanty could challenge for a top-five ranking among running backs, while Bowers is positioned to compete for the number-one tight end spot. These expectations are grounded in the significant personnel and coaching changes reshaping the franchise’s offensive strategy.

The analysis highlights the arrival of new head coach Klint Kubiak, who replaces Pete Carroll, alongside the addition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, selected in the first round from Indiana. Eisenberg notes that the offensive line is expected to improve with the return of Kolton Miller and the free-agent acquisition of centre Tyler Linderbaum. These structural adjustments are cited as key factors in the projected uptick in performance for the team’s skill position players.

Jeanty, who finished as the No. 16 PPR running back in his rookie year, is viewed as a potential breakout candidate. Despite a campaign that fell short of first-round expectations, he recorded 975 rushing yards and 346 receiving yards. Eisenberg suggests that the improved quarterback play and offensive line support should allow Jeanty’s talent to shine, potentially justifying his status as a Round 2 pick in most fantasy formats. The report also notes the drafting of running back Mike Washington Jr., though Jeanty is expected to remain the focal point of the backfield.

Brock Bowers is projected to rebound from a down 2025 season, where injuries and poor quarterback play limited his output. Eisenberg argues that Bowers should lead the Raiders in targets and challenge for the top spot among tight ends, potentially surpassing Trey McBride. The analyst recommends drafting Bowers in the middle of Round 2, citing his elite pass-catching ability and the improved environment provided by the new coaching staff and offensive line.

Wide receivers Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor, and Jack Bech are identified as late-round sleeper picks, with Tucker viewed as the potential number-one receiver. Tucker’s resume includes 696 yards and five touchdowns in 2024, while Nailor’s three-year, $35 million contract signals a significant role shift from Minnesota. Bech, a second-round pick, is seen as a value option who could step up if he develops rapport with the new quarterbacks. Eisenberg ranks the receivers as Tucker, Nailor, and Bech, suggesting that one of them could emerge as a reliable No. 3 fantasy option.

The report acknowledges that the Raiders are expected to remain competitive challenges in the AFC West, with no playoff appearances since 2021. However, the structural improvements in coaching and personnel suggest a potential turnaround. Eisenberg advises fantasy managers to monitor training camp developments, particularly regarding the quarterback competition between Cousins and Mendoza, which could significantly impact the offensive output for all skill position players.