Top QB prospect Fernando Mendoza to watch NFL draft from Miami

Mendoza, expected to go first overall to the Raiders, will watch with family and friends instead of attending in person.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:10am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the raw excitement and emotion of a football player being drafted into the NFL, their face obscured in the dynamic movement.A young quarterback's NFL draft dreams come alive in a burst of color and energy.Today in Pittsburgh

Fernando Mendoza, the highly touted quarterback prospect expected to be the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft by the Las Vegas Raiders, will watch the draft from Miami with family and friends instead of attending the event in Pittsburgh, according to a person with knowledge of his plans.

Why it matters

Many top draft prospects choose to attend the draft in person to receive congratulations from the NFL Commissioner, but some players prefer to watch from a different location. This decision by Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to the national championship, suggests he may want to avoid the spotlight of being the top pick and instead celebrate with his loved ones.

The details

The NFL draft will take place in Pittsburgh starting on April 23. While many top players will be there in person, Mendoza has decided to watch from Miami with his family and friends. This is not an uncommon choice, as recent top picks like Travon Walker in 2022 and Trevor Lawrence in 2021 also opted to watch the draft from a different location.

  • The NFL draft will take place in Pittsburgh starting on April 23, 2026.
  • Mendoza is expected to be the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A highly touted quarterback prospect who won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the national championship. He is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Las Vegas Raiders

An NFL team that is expected to select Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

Kirk Cousins

A veteran quarterback who the Raiders recently signed, likely with the intention of having him start while Mendoza watches and learns from the sideline.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Raiders will have to decide whether to start the veteran Kirk Cousins or give the reins to the rookie Mendoza once the draft is complete.

The takeaway

Mendoza's decision to watch the draft from Miami with his loved ones rather than attend in person in Pittsburgh suggests he may want to avoid the spotlight of being the top pick and instead celebrate this milestone moment in a more intimate setting.