Raiders Podcast Network John Spytek Combine Press Conference - 2.24.26
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Feb 24, 2026 John Spytek, Las Vegas Raiders general manager known for roster-building focus, speaks from the 2026 Combine. He discusses how evaluation has shifted since NIL and COVID, what defines a franchise quarterback, balancing veteran mentors with young talent, and internal draft tools and processes. He also covers offensive line strategy, Tom Brady’s input, and how medicals at the Combine can change plans.
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Spytek Confident In Maxx Crosby Staying Put
- On Maxx Crosby Spytek stressed a strong relationship and confidence Crosby wants to stay while Crosby rehabs in-house.
- He said Crosby is elite, in the building getting healthy, and they text and talk frequently.
Use Internal Simulators To Stress Test The Board
- Use internal mock-draft simulators combining scouts' grades to predict ranges and inform board decisions.
- Spytek confirmed the Raiders built their own system that ingests staff evaluations to model outcomes.
Always Evaluate Every Quarterback Prospect
- Continuously evaluate quarterbacks top to bottom because the position is hardest to project and players can emerge via draft or free agency.
- Spytek emphasized constant work on QB evaluation given varied college systems and pressure factors.