According to NFL.com, the Las Vegas Raiders are projected to receive a fourth-round compensatory draft pick in 2026.
Key details:
- Notable free-agent losses: Tre’von Moehrig (Panthers), Nate Hobbs (Packers), Robert Spillane (Patriots), Divine Deablo (Falcons).
- Major additions: Jeremy Chinn, Eric Stokes, Elandon Roberts.
NFL.com explains that the signings of Chinn, Roberts, and Stokes effectively cancel out the departures of Hobbs, Spillane, and Deablo. As a result, only Moehrig’s exit qualifies the team for a fourth-round compensatory pick.
The NFL limits the number of compensatory picks each year to 32, as outlined in the league’s collective bargaining agreement. These picks are not evenly distributed, and no team can receive more than four in one year. To qualify, a team must lose more qualifying free agents than it signs. In some cases, even teams that break even could earn a seventh-round pick depending on the comparative value of the players lost and gained.
Compensatory picks are given between Rounds 3 and 7 based on a formula that factors in annual salary, playing time, and postseason honors. A player’s role in the following season can affect the value of the compensatory pick.
In addition, the NFL awards special compensatory third-round picks to teams that lose minority coaches or executives who are hired by other teams as head coaches or general managers. For example, in 2025, the Detroit Lions will receive the second of two such picks after former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn was hired by the New York Jets.
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