Fernando Mendoza Projected as No. 1 Pick for Raiders in 2026 NFL Draft

Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza is the frontrunner to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the top selection. Draft analysts praise Mendoza as an accurate thrower to all three levels, efficient in RPOs and dropback situations, and a solid athlete. He's considered the best quarterback in the draft, fitting the Raiders' needs with his ability to run an offense at a high level, strong arm talent, and sufficient mobility. The Raiders last held the No. 1 pick in 2007.