Las Vegas Raiders' general manager John Spytek and assistant GM Brian Stark addressed the media Tuesday afternoon to speak about the newly set 53-man roster for the 2026 season, which starts in 12 days.
They set a clear theme — they know they have a young roster that will need time to develop, but they're excited about it.
"We got a long way to go, a lot of work to do with a young roster," Spytek said. He noted that the roster "requires development and development requires time."
Of course, the player at the center of the Raiders' youth movement, is rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. The Raiders haven't yet announced that veteran addition Kirk Cousins will start Week 1 at home against Miami, but that is the reported expectation.
Of Mendoza, Spytek said "his time is coming, but he has to earn it every day."
Spytek gave an encouraging thought on starting running back Ashton Jeanty's return from an ankle injury he suffered nine days ago, saying he's "in a good spot." Jeanty was on a side field, working with a trainer during Tuesday's practice.
"I expect him to be back as quick as he can," Spytek said. "Maybe quicker than some would expect, but we'll see.'
Spytek said head coach Klint Kubiak "stood on the table" to draft running back Mike Washington in the fourth round out of Arkansas. Spytek said the player is a perfect scheme fit for Kubiak's offense. He was impressive in the preseason and should play a lot in the regular season. Spytek said the organization is excited about the "track" Washington is on.
Asked about which player impressed them the most this summer, Spytek said late addition, pass-rusher Patrick Johnson. Stark tabbed second-year defensive tackle Tonka Hemingway.
The Raiders like the experience of cornerback Darrell Luter, who was claimed off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers on Monday. Luter, who can play special teams, has played in 27 games and has three starts. He's 26.
