The Las Vegas Raiders are entering the final stretch of their preparation for the 2026 NFL Draft while in possession of the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 2007.
With such a prime selection in their possession and a glaring need for a franchise quarterback, all signs point toward the Raiders' drafting of Indiana Hoosiers standout Fernando Mendoza.
Las Vegas' offseason changes included moving on from veteran passer Geno Smith, leaving a clear need on the roster with only fourth-year signal caller Aidan O’Connell in tow.
Mendoza is coming off winning the college football national championship with the Hoosiers, leading Indiana to an undefeated 16-0 season in 2025. He also brings a lot of experience, with 35 starts across three seasons, split between California and Indiana.
Jacob Musselman - Imagn Images
The Raiders keep saying the evaluation process of all draft prospects is still ongoing, with general manager John Spytek declining to commit to any particular player for the No. 1 pick on Monday.
“We’ve got a process, we’re gonna follow it and we’re gonna make the best decision we can for the Raiders,” Spytek said.
But on Tuesday, head coach Klint Kubiak offered a direct assessment of Mendoza while speaking at the annual league meeting, hinting at the franchise's view of the quarterback and their plans for him if he lands in Las Vegas.
“He’s a winner, he’s accurate, he’s tall [and] intelligent,” Kubiak said.
According to NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah, Mendoza has already begun learning elements of the Raiders’ offensive system.
The Raiders will attend Mendoza's Pro Day on Wednesday, with the NFL draft set for Apr. 23-25 in Pittsburgh, PA.
