Raiders vs Giants Week 17 Showdown to Shape Top of 2026 NFL Draft

The Las Vegas Raiders host the New York Giants this Sunday. The Week 17 NFL game kicks off at Allegiant Stadium. Both teams enter the contest with poor records. The matchup has major implications for the top of next year’s draft order.

This game is a classic “tank bowl” with significant future consequences. According to NFL.com, the loser improves their odds for the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Fans will watch two struggling franchises battle for pride and positioning.

Key Injuries Cloud Raiders’ Final Home Game

The Raiders’ injury report is a major storyline. Star defensive end Maxx Crosby missed practice this week. He is dealing with a knee injury that puts his status in doubt.

His potential absence is a huge blow. Crosby is the heart of the defense and the team’s best player. Offensive tackle Kolton Miller, however, has returned to practice. His comeback from a severe ankle fracture is a rare bright spot.

Running back Raheem Mostert is also questionable. Rookie tight end Brock Bowers is already on injured reserve. The Raiders will lean heavily on quarterback Geno Smith and rookie Ashton Jeanty.

Giants Also Battling Significant Health Issues

New York is not entering this game at full strength either. Their injury list is perhaps even longer. Multiple starting offensive linemen have missed practice this week.

Key defenders are also banged up. This includes starting defensive backs Tae Banks and Tyler Nubin. The sheer volume of injuries for both sides could lead to a sloppy game.

The outcome may hinge on which team’s backups perform better. With so many starters out, execution will be challenging. ESPN analysts note this game could come down to a critical mistake.

The Raiders vs Giants clash is more than a Week 17 finale. It is a pivotal contest for NFL draft lottery odds. The result will resonate through the entire offseason for both franchises.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What time is the Raiders vs Giants game?

The game is scheduled for 4:25 PM Eastern Time on Sunday. It will be played at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Check local listings for the broadcasting network.

Q2: Why is this game important for the NFL Draft?

The team with the worse record gets a higher draft pick. The loser of this game strengthens their claim to a top-three selection. Picking first overall is a major franchise advantage.

Q3: Is Maxx Crosby playing against the Giants?

As of Friday, Crosby is officially listed as questionable. He missed multiple practices with a knee injury. A final decision will come closer to game time.

Q4: What are the records of the Raiders and Giants?

The Las Vegas Raiders enter the game with a 2-13 record. The New York Giants have a 3-12 record. Both teams are at the bottom of their respective conferences.

Q5: Who is expected to start at quarterback?

Geno Smith is the expected starter for the Las Vegas Raiders. The Giants are likely to start Daniel Jones, barring a last-minute change. Both veterans are leading struggling offenses.

Q6: Can the Raiders get the first overall pick?

Yes, but they need to lose their final two games. They also need other results to go their way. Losing to the Giants is a crucial step in that unlikely scenario.

Trusted Sources: NFL.com, ESPN, Associated Press