Raiders Poised to Select Fernando Mendoza No. 1 Overall

The Las Vegas Raiders are widely expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite some external scrutiny regarding his college scheme and athleticism, Mendoza remains the team's primary target as they look to build their future around him. The organization is clearing cap space and acquiring draft capital to surround the Heisman winner with a revamped offensive line and new coaching staff under Klint Kubiak.