This Sunday in Sin City, a unique and consequential NFL contest unfolds. The New York Giants and the Las Vegas Raiders, two franchises mired in misery with identical 2-13 records, will battle at Allegiant Stadium. Yet, the biggest question isn't who will win, but whether either team truly wants to.
The Perils of Victory in a Lost Season
With just two games remaining in the regular season, the benefits of a victory are curiously low. The loser of this clash will solidify its position as the frontrunner for the coveted first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. For both organisations, that selection represents a golden ticket out of the abyss, albeit for different reasons.
For the Raiders, overseen by part-owner Tom Brady, another comprehensive rebuild is imminent. The first attempt under head coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith has been a categorical failure, leaving the franchise in desperate need of a franchise-altering talent.
The Giants, however, might view the top pick differently. Despite a horrendous campaign, there are flickers of hope on their roster. Jaxson Dart has shown promise as the quarterback of the future, while offensive weapons like running back Cam Skattebo and wide receiver Malik Nabers—both lost to serious injuries this year—offer a core for better days. Consequently, Big Blue could use the first pick as prime trade capital to accelerate their revival by acquiring multiple assets.
A Domino Effect for Struggling Franchises
The outcome of this 'Tank Bowl' will send ripples across the league. Should the Giants make the top pick available, a host of quarterback-needy teams are poised to pounce.
The New York Jets (3-12), enduring another miserable season, are a prime candidate. With Justin Fields failing to secure the long-term job, General Manager Aaron Glenn is under pressure to find a solution. The Jets already possess four selections in the first two rounds, but moving up could be crucial.
They are not alone. The Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns also sit at 3-12, though both have their quarterback situations settled. The Browns, notably, hold two first-round picks in 2026 from the Travis Hunter trade with Jacksonville. Other potential suitors looking to move up for a signal-caller include the Arizona Cardinals and Miami Dolphins.
Meanwhile, several teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Green Bay Packers currently do not own a first-round pick for the upcoming draft.
Final Hurdles and Future Dates
The path to the finish line is tough for both protagonists. After Sunday's game, the Giants conclude their season against the Dallas Cowboys, while the Raiders host the struggling Kansas City Chiefs. Every result will be scrutinised for its impact on the final draft order.
The entire league will then turn its attention to Pittsburgh, where the 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25. The decisions made from this losing season, starting with Sunday's paradoxical clash in Las Vegas, will define these franchises for years to come.
