27 days remain until the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 23-25, 2026. After a 3-14 season in 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick as this daily countdown continues through the franchise’s best players by jersey number.
Today, March 27, 2026, the number is 27.
Frank Hawkins, No. 27
Frank Hawkins is the pick at No. 27 because his Raiders run came with longevity and a clear role. He also brings a Las Vegas tie that fits this series.
Hawkins played seven seasons with the Raiders from 1981-87. During that stretch, he was part of the Super Bowl XVIII championship team.
Why Hawkins gets No. 27
Hawkins is the best No. 27 because he logged 88 games in silver and black. He rushed for 1,659 yards and 15 touchdowns as a Raider.
Meanwhile, he added value as a physical complement in the backfield. That steady contribution separates him from the other options at this number.
Draft and background
Hawkins was born July 3, 1959, in Las Vegas, Nev. He attended Western High School in Nevada, then played at Nevada.
The Oakland Raiders drafted him in the 10th round (No. 276 overall) in 1981.
Other notable No. 27s
- Joe Krakoski, 1963-1966
- Reggie Nelson, 2016-2018
- Joe Cannavino, 1960-1961
- Trayvon Mullen, 2019-2021
- Fabian Washington, 2005-2007
Career check
Hawkins was not a headliner, but he stayed in the mix for years. For No. 27, his tenure and touchdowns make him the choice.
Next up tomorrow: No. 26.
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Dice City Sports editor Mark Hebert covers the Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders, Athletics, and UNLV baseball and softball. He has 24 years of journalism experience, is also a senior reporter at Exhibit City News, and previously covered the Dallas Stars and Texas Rangers. Follow him on X or connect on LinkedIn.
