**Raiders Eye No. 1 Draft Pick Amid Injuries Ahead of Giants Clash**
The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in the race for the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, and their chances may have just improved. Set to face the New York Giants in Week 17, both teams currently hold a record of 2-13. A loss for either squad would significantly enhance their odds of securing the top draft position.
Unfortunately for the Raiders, they will be missing two key players in their matchup against the Giants. The team announced on Wednesday that star tight end Brock Bowers and safety Jeremy Chinn have been placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Bowers has struggled with a knee injury since Week 1, managing to play in only 12 games this season. Despite this, he recorded 64 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. Last season, Bowers set a record for the most receptions by a rookie in NFL history, finishing with 112 catches for 1,164 yards and five touchdowns over 17 games.
Chinn has been a standout defender for the Raiders this year, accumulating 114 tackles, one sack, three tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles. In response to these injuries, the Raiders have signed safety Terrell Edmunds and wide receiver Shedrick Jackson to the active roster, while also adding long snapper Luke Elkin and tackle Joshua Miles to the practice squad.
The high-stakes game between the Giants and Raiders is scheduled for Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET in Las Vegas, with both teams looking to improve their draft positioning.
**FAQ**
*What impact do injuries have on the Raiders’ chances against the Giants?*
Injuries to key players like Brock Bowers and Jeremy Chinn could hinder the Raiders’ performance, making it more challenging to secure a win against the Giants, which could ultimately affect their draft position.
