Raiders Prepare for Likely Selection of Heisman Winner Mendoza

Top QB prospect Fernando Mendoza visits Raiders ahead of NFL Draft

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:08pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract football game or NFL draft scene, with sharp, overlapping planes of silver, navy blue, and crimson red conveying the energy and anticipation of a major franchise-altering decision.The Raiders' selection of quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick will be a pivotal moment, as the franchise looks to the young star to lead them into the future.Las Vegas Today

The Las Vegas Raiders are widely expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza is visiting the Raiders' facility on Tuesday for a pre-draft workout and meeting, the only such visit scheduled for the top prospect.

Why it matters

The Raiders' selection of Mendoza with the first pick will be a pivotal moment for the franchise, as they look to the young quarterback to lead them into the future after signing veteran Kirk Cousins as a potential stopgap option.

The details

Mendoza, who led Indiana to the national championship last season, is considered the consensus top pick in this year's draft. His visit to the Raiders' facility on Tuesday will allow him to work out for the team's coaches and front office, as well as meet with them to discuss his potential fit with the organization.

  • Mendoza's visit to the Raiders is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to take place in the coming weeks after Mendoza's visit.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback from Indiana University, who is widely expected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL franchise based in Las Vegas, Nevada, who hold the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and are expected to select Mendoza to be their quarterback of the future.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback recently signed by the Raiders, who could serve as a mentor and stopgap option for Mendoza until the young prospect is ready to take over as the team's starting QB.

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What they’re saying

“It'd take something monumentally surprising to change the Raiders' plans here.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider

What’s next

The Raiders will make their selection with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in the coming weeks, which is widely expected to be Fernando Mendoza.

The takeaway

The Raiders' selection of Mendoza with the first overall pick will be a pivotal moment for the franchise, as they look to the young quarterback to lead them into the future and potentially end their long playoff drought.