Raiders Stick with QB Fernando Mendoza as Top Pick After NFL Combine

Las Vegas Raiders' 2026 NFL Draft plans remain focused on Indiana QB despite Maxx Crosby trade rumors

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:23pm

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The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, according to multiple NFL mock drafts released after the recent NFL Combine. This comes despite rumors that the Raiders could trade star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, which did not materialize. The Raiders have made several free agent signings, including center Tyler Linderbaum and wide receiver Jalen Nailor, that suggest they are building an offense around the projected top pick Mendoza.

Why it matters

The selection of Mendoza would be a pivotal moment for the Raiders, as they look to find their long-term answer at quarterback after years of inconsistency at the position. Mendoza is widely viewed as the top QB prospect in this class, and landing him with the first overall pick could set the franchise up for success for years to come.

The details

Multiple NFL mock drafts, including those from USA Today, CBS Sports, ESPN, NFL Network, and ClutchPoints, have the Raiders selecting Mendoza with the first overall pick. This comes despite rumors that the Raiders could trade star pass rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens, which ultimately did not happen. The Raiders have made several free agent signings, including center Tyler Linderbaum and wide receiver Jalen Nailor, that suggest they are building an offense around the projected top pick Mendoza.

  • The NFL Combine took place in late February/early March 2026.
  • The Raiders' free agent signings of Linderbaum and Nailor occurred in the weeks following the Combine.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 1, 2026.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A highly touted quarterback prospect from Indiana University who is widely projected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Maxx Crosby

An All-Pro pass rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders who was rumored to be traded to the Baltimore Ravens, but the deal ultimately fell through.

Tyler Linderbaum

A veteran center who the Raiders signed to a 3-year, $81 million contract with $60 million guaranteed, likely to help protect and support their projected top draft pick Mendoza.

Jalen Nailor

A wide receiver the Raiders signed in free agency who is coming off a career-best season with the Minnesota Vikings, further suggesting the team is building an offense around Mendoza.

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What they’re saying

“It's a bit ironic that the Ravens have a similar need as the Raiders at interior offensive line, especially with center Tyler Linderbaum heading to Las Vegas. The ideal scenario for Baltimore would be either Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane or Utah's Spencer Fano being available at No. 14.”

— Field Yates, ESPN NFL Insider (ESPN)

“There might be another team that's willing to pass him but you're going to have to meet the Raiders price, whatever that is.”

— Adam Schefter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Raiders are expected to send members of their front office to attend Indiana's Pro Day on April 1, where they will get an up-close look at projected top pick Fernando Mendoza ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Las Vegas Raiders appear committed to building their future around quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the presumptive top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite rumors of a potential Maxx Crosby trade, the Raiders have made key free agent signings that suggest they are focused on surrounding Mendoza with the necessary offensive talent and protection to succeed at the professional level.