Raiders Poised to Draft Heisman Winner Mendoza with Top Pick

GM Spytek says team has received calls but plans to use No. 1 selection

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:20am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player's throwing motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of silver, navy, and crimson, conceptually representing the strategic importance of the Raiders' top draft selection.The Raiders' first overall pick will be a critical decision that could reshape the franchise's future.Las Vegas Today

The Las Vegas Raiders hold the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft and are expected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. General Manager John Spytek confirmed the team has received interest from other teams about the top pick, but stated the Raiders will use the selection without revealing their specific plans.

Why it matters

The Raiders' decision with the No. 1 pick will have major implications for the rest of the NFL Draft, as Mendoza is widely considered one of the top quarterback prospects. The team's plans could impact trade discussions and the strategies of other teams looking to move up in the draft order.

The details

The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason, indicating they plan to have Mendoza sit and develop for at least a year before taking over as the starter. Last year, the team had to wait until the sixth overall pick to select running back Ashton Jeanty, but this year they have the luxury of the top selection.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

John Spytek

General Manager of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Fernando Mendoza

Heisman Trophy winning quarterback expected to be selected first overall by the Raiders.

Kirk Cousins

Veteran quarterback signed by the Raiders as a bridge until Mendoza is ready to start.

Ashton Jeanty

Running back selected by the Raiders with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“We've gotten a few calls, and those teams know where they stand right now.”

— John Spytek, General Manager

“A lot less energy spent on hypotheticals. There's only one team that can get the exact person they want, and we have that option available to us if we so choose.”

— John Spytek, General Manager

What’s next

The Raiders will officially make their selection with the first overall pick during the 2026 NFL Draft on April 24-26.

The takeaway

The Raiders' decision with the No. 1 pick will be a pivotal moment in shaping the future of their franchise, as they look to build around the highly touted Mendoza as their quarterback of the future.