The Las Vegas Raiders begin a new era of their franchise this summer. With training camp just a handful of weeks away, the anticipation builds for what will be one of the most critical seasons in the organization's history.This spring, the Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. The "future of the franchise" may not start right away, but there is excitement in a legitimate path forward that Raiders Nation can look ahead to. Across the roster, the youth are already standing out.May 20, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) stretches during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectDuring the offseasons, general manager John Spytek aggressively rebuilt his defense through free agency and the NFL Draft, signing new starting linebackers and defensive backs while drafting four of the latter. The secondary will be one of the youngest in the NFL, which is why defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator Joe Woods will be one of the most important individuals on head coach Klint Kubiak's staff.Joe Woods Holds Key to Raiders' Defensive Backfield SuccessCleveland Browns defensive coordinator Joe Woods keeps an eye on OTA workouts on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 in Berea.