Raiders Set for Week 17 Showdown with Giants Amid Draft Implications

The Las Vegas Raiders are heading into Week 17 of the NFL season with little to gain from their upcoming matchup against the New York Giants. Currently holding a record of 2-13, the Raiders and Giants sit at the bottom of the standings, occupying the top two spots in the 2026 NFL Draft order. The outcome of this Sunday’s game will significantly impact their chances for the coveted first overall pick in April’s draft.

The stakes are particularly high for both teams, as the losing team will virtually secure the top selection. Allegations of intentional losing, or “tanking,” are swirling around the organizations, especially following the Raiders’ recent decisions regarding player injuries. On December 24, 2025, it was announced that superstar tight end Brock Bowers and starting safety Jeremy Chinn would both be placed on season-ending injured reserve. Bowers has struggled with a knee issue throughout the season, while Chinn has faced a back problem.

While coaches and players typically aim to win, the Raiders’ front office may see a loss as beneficial for their draft strategy. With only draft positioning at stake, the decision not to risk further injury to key players suggests a lack of urgency to secure a victory this week. Both Bowers and Chinn showed potential to play through their ailments, yet the organization has opted to prioritize health over competitiveness.

The implications of this decision point to a broader issue in the league regarding the balance between winning and strategic planning for future seasons. Although the Raiders are not overtly “tanking,” their actions indicate a preference for safeguarding player health rather than pursuing a win on the field. The outcome of this game may ultimately come down to which team performs slightly better, as both teams will likely enter the game with diminished enthusiasm for victory.

As the Raiders prepare to face the Giants, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, not just for the score, but for the broader implications that this game holds for the future of both franchises. A win for either team could lead to a missed opportunity for the first overall pick, placing additional pressure on players and coaches alike. The Raiders’ decisions this week illustrate the complexities of professional sports, where winning and strategic planning often clash in unpredictable ways.