Raiders Set to Draft Fernando Mendoza as No. 1 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

53 articles · Updated · AtoZ Sports · Apr 20

The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
General manager John Spytek confirmed teams have inquired about trading for the top pick, but the Raiders appear focused on Mendoza.
Mendoza, a Heisman winner and national champion, would compete with Kirk Cousins and Aidan O'Connell as the franchise seeks to rebuild.

Is the top draft pick's biggest on-field weakness being overlooked by his team?

In a historically weak draft, is betting everything on one QB the right move?

Can a 'goofy' quarterback with a 'rage to master' truly lead an NFL franchise?

Will sitting behind Kirk Cousins help or hinder the NFL's next top quarterback prospect?

Is Tom Brady's influence building a champion or creating chaos for the Raiders?