Raiders Prepare for Pivotal Draft with Top Pick

Head Coach Klint Kubiak outlines the team's thorough evaluation process for potential No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:30am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a crucial offseason as they hold the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Head coach Klint Kubiak detailed the team's meticulous evaluation process for potential No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza, the star quarterback from Indiana University. With 10 total draft picks, the Raiders are determined to add impactful talent to their roster through the draft after a strong start to free agency.

Why it matters

The Raiders have struggled in recent seasons and are hoping to turn things around with a successful draft class, especially with the first overall pick. Selecting the right quarterback to build around is paramount, so the team is leaving no stone unturned in their evaluation of Mendoza and other top prospects.

The details

Kubiak emphasized that the Raiders are closely examining every aspect of Mendoza's game, from his performance in high-pressure situations to his communication skills and body language. The team is also evaluating how Mendoza handles himself at the upcoming NFL Combine and pro day events. Las Vegas wants to ensure Mendoza is the right fit both on and off the field before making him the top pick.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.
  • Mendoza recently led Indiana to the College Football Playoff National Championship game.

The players

Klint Kubiak

Head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Fernando Mendoza

Star quarterback from Indiana University who is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Well, you just want to see how good of a player they are first. That's the starting point, is just spending time watching their games, watching how they handle two-minute drives, how they handle being down 14, how they handle being up 14, how they how fast they get up when they get drilled in the face, with the interviews you want to look to see how well they can communicate and relate to other people that aren't like them.”

— Klint Kubiak, Head Coach, Las Vegas Raiders

What’s next

The Raiders will continue their thorough evaluation of Mendoza and other top prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

The Raiders are leaving no stone unturned in their evaluation of potential No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza, as they aim to add a transformative talent through the draft to help turn the franchise around after a difficult stretch.