Raiders Players React to Idea of Tanking for No. 1 NFL Draft Pick After Loss to Giants

Two members of the Las Vegas Raiders denied effectively taking a dive in Sunday's 34-10 defeat to the New York Giants.

Thanks to the result, the Raiders now have the NFL's worst record (2-14) and are on track to pick first in the 2026 draft.

"I hate that's what people are saying or thinking," defensive tackle Jonah Laulu said in reference to the idea Vegas players were focused on draft position in Week 17, per ESPN's Ryan McFadden. "We're not trying to lose. I'm trying to go out and do my best because I don't know if I'm going to be here next year."

Cornerback Eric Stokes pointed to earlier comments from defensive end Maxx Crosby, who said last week draft considerations were the furthest thing from his mind.

"If y'all are trying to tank, don't throw it my way then," Stokes told McFadden. "The same thing Maxx said, I'm trying to be the best person I can be. If anybody is trying to tank, y'all might as well take me out, too."

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Intentional or not, the Raiders made their case for being the NFL's worst team in 2025 by coming up short so decisively against what had been a fellow two-win squad.

Quarterback Geno Smith went 20-of-28 for 176 yards, one touchdown and an interception before exiting in the fourth quarter with a high ankle sprain. Smith's 17 picks are the most in the NFL, and he's tied for the lead in sacks (55) after going down three times Sunday.

The Vegas defense allowed a total of 155 yards and three touchdowns on the ground to the Giants.

As an organization, the Raiders seemed to signal their short-term priorities when they placed Crosby on injured reserve, a decision with which the five-time Pro Bowler reportedly "vehemently disagreed."

A lopsided loss to New York was the next step toward securing the No. 1 pick and at least having something to show from such a dreadful season.