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Raiders Set to Draft Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza First Overall
Scouts see shades of Carson Palmer in the star college quarterback prospect.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:14pm
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A cubist interpretation of a quarterback's throwing motion captures the dynamic energy of the NFL draft's top prospect.Las Vegas TodayBarring any surprises, the Las Vegas Raiders are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza is widely considered the top quarterback prospect in this year's class, with scouts drawing comparisons to former NFL star Carson Palmer.
Why it matters
The Raiders have a clear need at the quarterback position, and landing a potential franchise QB like Mendoza with the first pick could be a franchise-altering move. Mendoza's skill set and playing style have drawn lofty comparisons, raising expectations that he could develop into an elite NFL signal-caller.
The details
Mendoza, a 6'4" pocket passer, is coming off a standout college career at Indiana where he threw for over 11,000 yards and 90 touchdowns. His combination of size, arm strength, and accuracy have made him the consensus top QB prospect, with scouts highlighting his similarities to former Heisman Trophy winner and longtime NFL starter Carson Palmer.
- Mendoza is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled for April 24-26.
The players
Fernando Mendoza
A 6'4" quarterback prospect from Indiana University who is widely projected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Carson Palmer
A former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback who played 15 seasons in the league, making the Pro Bowl three times.
Las Vegas Raiders
An NFL franchise based in Las Vegas, Nevada that is in need of a long-term solution at the quarterback position.
What’s next
The Raiders will have the opportunity to officially select Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on April 24-26.
The takeaway
The selection of Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick could be a franchise-altering move for the Raiders, as they look to land a potential star quarterback to lead them into the future. Mendoza's skill set and playing style have drawn lofty comparisons to former NFL great Carson Palmer, raising expectations that he could develop into an elite NFL signal-caller.
