Last playoff season: 2021
As with the Cardinals, Las Vegas suffers from pulling up the rear in one of the toughest divisions in football. The Broncos and Chargers have made the postseason in each of the last two campaigns, while the Chiefs, despite missing the playoffs last year, remain a threat as long as Patrick Mahomes is healthy and Andy Reid is the coach. Things are looking up for the Raiders — there is a plan at quarterback, with veteran Kirk Cousins set to cede the reins to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza some time soon, and a fresh face at head coach in Super Bowl winner Klint Kubiak. But despite those additions, the Maxx Crosby retention and other savvy moves, the Raiders are the odd men out in the West. The Raiders’ .529 strength of schedule (seventh-highest in the NFL) provides serious headwinds in their sails. The franchise has enjoyed just two playoff berths in the 23 years since its Super Bowl appearance, neither lasting longer than a game. Barring an expedited turnaround, it’ll be two in 24 years by season’s end.