Fernando Mendoza goes first overall to Raiders in 2026 NFL Draft
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · May 5
Fernando Mendoza goes first overall to Raiders in 2026 NFL Draft
16 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · May 5
Las Vegas used the No. 1 pick on the Indiana quarterback after months of scouting led by general manager John Spytek and assistant GM Brian Stark.
Team officials said Mendoza's intelligence, leadership and consistency stood out through combine meetings, his April 1 pro day, a private visit and dinner with owner Mark Davis.
The Heisman winner and national champion is expected to anchor a franchise reset after a poor season left the Raiders atop the draft order.
He’s a “perfect fit,” so why must Fernando Mendoza completely relearn how to play quarterback for the NFL?
Why did the Raiders sign veteran Kirk Cousins after using the #1 pick on their quarterback of the future?
Was the Raiders' unanimous decision a perfect evaluation or just a year-long confirmation of an early favorite?