The Las Vegas Raiders used their time at the 2026 NFL scouting combine to outline how coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek plan to shape the roster this offseason. Speaking with media in Indianapolis, the new leadership tandem emphasized building a clear identity, improving internal competition and using both free agency and the draft to create long-term stability.
Kubiak, entering his first season as Raiders head coach, outlined his vision for the team’s overall approach. He stressed the importance of establishing consistent standards in preparation, effort and communication, saying that the offseason program will be built around those principles. While specific schematic choices were not detailed, Kubiak pointed to adaptability and teaching as priorities, indicating that the staff will be focused on fitting concepts to the strengths of current and future players rather than forcing a rigid system.
Spytek discussed how the front office is approaching roster construction at the outset of this offseason. He noted that the combine is not only about evaluating draft prospects but also about clarifying team needs and finding stylistic matches between players and the coaching staff. The general manager highlighted collaboration with Kubiak and the coaching staff as central to the process, with an emphasis on clear communication between personnel and coaches when assessing both veterans and incoming rookies.
Both Kubiak and Spytek referenced the importance of competition at every position. They indicated that no spots will be taken for granted as the team moves through free agency and into the draft. While they did not single out individual players, they suggested that the roster will be evaluated thoroughly, with opportunities for younger players to earn larger roles and for new additions to challenge for playing time.
The pair also addressed the broader timeline of the Raiders’ build. Rather than framing 2026 as a short-term push for immediate results at the expense of future flexibility, they spoke about balancing present improvement with sustainable growth. That means weighing the value of veteran experience against the long-term upside of younger players, and being disciplined with resources as they navigate the market.
At the combine, Kubiak and Spytek used their first major joint appearance to underline a shared vision: a Raiders team that is more detailed in preparation, aligned between the front office and coaching staff, and deliberate in how it adds talent through free agency and the draft. While specific player targets and tactical schemes remain to be seen, the message from Indianapolis was that the organization intends to build patiently but decisively, with a clear emphasis on structure, accountability and competition throughout the roster.
