Introduction

The final week of the NFL regular season, often dubbed Week 18, brings an air of urgency for teams battling for playoff positions or evaluating their future. This year, the stakes were particularly high as the 2026 NFL Draft order took shape, with significant implications for teams targeting franchise quarterbacks. The Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets emerged as big winners in this draft process, while several other franchises grappled with the consequences of their season performance.

Raiders Set to Shine with No. 1 Pick

As the dust settled on the 2025 season, the Las Vegas Raiders found themselves with the coveted No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. This is a monumental opportunity for the franchise, which has struggled to find quarterback stability since selecting JaMarcus Russell in 2007. The Raiders opted for veteran Geno Smith in an effort to stabilize their quarterback situation, but the experiment did not pan out as hoped, leaving the team to seek a new direction.

The emergence of Indiana's Fernando Mendoza as a top prospect could rejuvenate the Raiders. Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, boasts a keen football IQ and talented physical abilities. His performance under pressure has drawn praise from his coach, Curt Cignetti, who emphasized Mendoza's strong values and work ethic. With his potential, Mendoza represents a significant contrast to the ill-fated Russell era, offering the Raiders a chance to finally secure a reliable quarterback.

Giants' Misstep and Long-Term Gains

In stark contrast to the Raiders, the New York Giants navigated the end of the season by winning their last two games, inadvertently dropping from a potential top pick. Though this decrease in draft positioning could be seen as a setback, the Giants' existing quarterback situation alleviates some concern. With Jaxson Dart under center, New York is not scrambling for a top-tier quarterback like many of their competitors.

Despite losing leverage to trade the pick for additional assets, the Giants’ decision to win late in the season highlights the balance between immediate success and future investments in the NFL. Their strategy, focusing on cultivating their current roster, may pay off in the long run, particularly if they can build on their recent victories.

New York Jets and the Dante Moore Dilemma

The New York Jets find themselves in an interesting position with their draft status hinging on the decision of quarterback Dante Moore from Oregon. While they enjoy a favorable draft spot, Moore’s choice to declare for the draft could significantly impact their plans. If he enters the draft, he is a clear contender for one of the top two quarterback slots alongside Mendoza.

Moore's underclassman status adds a layer of complexity to his potential declaration. His father, Otha Moore, indicated there’s no rush to make a decision, implying that a prudent choice would prioritize his son's readiness rather than immediate rewards. Should Moore opt to forgo the draft, the Jets may not secure the franchise quarterback they crave yet could still benefit from their existing draft assets.

Challenges Faced by the Cleveland Browns

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns are in a familiar predicament—constantly searching for a franchise quarterback while mired in mediocrity. Despite possessing several draft picks, including some gained through trades, the Browns again failed to position themselves to acquire a top prospect after a two-game winning streak at season's end. This allowed the Raiders and Jets to cement their statuses at the top of the draft.

The Browns' history of failed first-round quarterback selections further complicates their situation. With quarterback decisions proving detrimental, they are once again faced with the need to make impactful choices for their franchise’s future.

A Bright Outlook for Kansas City Chiefs

On the other end of the spectrum, the Kansas City Chiefs, who ended the season with a struggle, will enter the draft armed with a top-10 pick, a rarity for the team in recent years. General Manager Brett Veach has an opportunity to infuse talent into an aging roster that requires rejuvenation. Despite challenges faced in the season’s final stretch, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ injury, the Chiefs' championship window remains open with the potential for strategic selections in the draft.

Colts: A Cautionary Tale

The Indianapolis Colts, on the other hand, are a cautionary tale of rapid disappointment. After a promising start, the Colts ended their season on a seven-game losing streak, ensuring they will not have a first-round pick in the upcoming draft—sacrificed in a trade for a proven cornerback. This turn of events stresses the importance of holistic team development and readiness for immediate challenges.

Conclusion

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the implications of Week 18 will echo through team strategies. The Raiders hold the golden ticket of the top pick, while the Jets await clarity on their possible franchise quarterback in Dante Moore. The tides of hope and despair offer dramatic contrasts for the teams within the league. As organizations recalibrate their visions for success, all eyes will be on how these draft decisions unfold—each selection could potentially reshape the future of these franchises.