AFC Executive Answers If the Raiders’ 3-0 Start Is a ‘Fluke’
The Las Vegas Raiders have emerged as one of the NFL’s biggest surprises after opening the 2026 season with three consecutive victories. While questions remain about whether the undefeated start can continue, an AFC executive believes the team’s offensive production suggests there is more substance behind the early success than a fortunate stretch.
The Raiders have found an offensive rhythm that has made them increasingly difficult to defend through the opening weeks. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has been among the league’s most productive passers, while the passing game has received important contributions from tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Tre Tucker.
Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) throws a pass during the game against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
The development of the running game has provided another reason for optimism. Ashton Jeanty and Mike Washington Jr. have formed a promising combination in the backfield, giving the offense multiple options and helping create a more balanced attack against opposing defenses.
Perhaps the most surprising development has come from the offensive line, which entered the season with questions surrounding its ability to consistently protect the quarterback and establish the run. The unit has looked more cohesive through three games, allowing the offense to operate with greater consistency and giving the skill-position players more opportunities to make an impact.
AFC Exec Says Las Vegas Raiders’ 3-0 Start Is a ‘Fluke’
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
An anonymous AFC executive called Las Vegas’ 3-0 start this season somewhat of a fluke. This can be seen in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
“Yes … to a point,” Fowler wrote. “The evaluators I’ve spoken with see an offense that’s humming. “I have no reason to believe it is a fluke right now,” one AFC executive said. Quarterback Kirk Cousins is tied for the league lead in touchdown passes (nine). Tight end Brock Bowers looked unguardable Sunday in New Orleans, wide receiver Tre Tucker is emerging and the 1-2 rushing combo of Ashton Jeanty and Mike Washington Jr. is promising. A once-maligned offensive line looks more cohesive.”
Bowers has emerged as one of the most difficult players for opposing defenses to contain, while the receiving corps has continued developing around the veteran quarterback. With the running game also showing signs of becoming a dependable part of the offense, the Raiders have demonstrated that their success is not dependent on a single player or one particular method of scoring.
The Raiders still have plenty to prove before their undefeated beginning can be considered sustainable over an entire season. However, the combination of quarterback production, emerging playmakers, improved line play and a developing ground game provides tangible reasons to believe the team’s fast start could represent genuine progress rather than simply a temporary run of favorable results.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com — article syndicated from the publisher’s feed; all rights remain with the original publisher.