Fernando Mendoza is widely projected as the No. 1 pick for the upcoming 2026 NFL draft among experts. However, the Las Vegas Raiders, which owns the first pick, are keeping their options open as the draft approaches.
On Monday’s “NFL Live” on ESPN, Raiders general manager John Spytek refused to commit to Mendoza despite his continuous link to the franchise. While the team needs a new quarterback after trading Geno Smith, Spytek noted the team has yet to reach a conclusion on its decision.
“No breaking news today,” Spytek said. “And it's the question everybody wants to know, but I'll just keep saying the same thing. We've got a process, we're gonna follow it and we're gonna make the best decision we can for the Raiders.”
While Spytek refused to outrightly commit to Mendoza, NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah disclosed on Saturday that the quarterback is already learning the Raiders' offense. Jeremiah noted on the “Pat McAfee Show” that the Heisman Trophy winner is currently working with Brian Griese to install every bit of their scheme.
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The Raiders are scheduled to host Fernando Mendoza for a private workout next week. However, the quarterback will be throwing at the Indiana Pro Day this week before that happens. John Spytek confirmed on “NFL Live” that the Raiders will be in attendance in Bloomington.
“We will be there,” Spytek said. “I think it's prudent that we go to all the touch points that we can to see all the great players that are out there. And I think at any pro day, you just wanna see guys compete and show up and be there for their teammates and put their best foot forward.”
Fernando Mendoza is widely considered the best passer in the year's draft, and he's viewed by many as a great pick for the Raiders. Nonetheless, a host of analysts have voiced concerns about his flaws, including his arm strength and pressure management in the pocket.
