Raiders spending money on defense

HENDERSON, NEVADA - JUNE 03: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders attends a news conference after an OTA offseason workout at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on June 03, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Las Vegas Raiders spent money this offseason in free agency on the defensive side of the ball to improve a lacking group.

In addition to keeping star pass-rusher Maxx Crosby, the Raiders added free-agent linebackers, Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean ad pass-rusher Kwity Paye among other players to bolster their defense.

The result means the Raiders are dedicating more salary-cap space to the defensive side of the ball than most teams in the NFL.

According to a recent X post by NFL analyst Warren Sharp, the Raiders are spending $147 million on defensive players for the 2026 season. That is 10th in the NFL this season. Here is the full list

most expensive defenses in 2026

$193.0M - Steelers
$187.4M - Ravens
$177.7M - Bears
$174.7M - Giants
$169.0M - Patriots
$165.8M - Commanders
$159.6M - Seahawks
$148.3M - Titans
$147.3M - Colts
$147.0M - Raiders
$145.5M - Panthers
$142.1M - Broncos
$141.6M - Chiefs
$140.2M -...

- Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) June 5, 2026

Now, it's up to Rob Leonard's unit to live up to the financial commitment by the team.

In other Raiders' news:

• Best QB divisions: NFL.com ranks the eight divisons by quarterback play.
• MVP longshots: NFL.com looks at some darkhourse candidates to win the MVP award.