Raiders take Fernando Mendoza with No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NFL Draft

Heisman Trophy winner leads Indiana to first national title, expected to be franchise QB for Las Vegas

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:25am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the selection of a football player in the 2026 NFL Draft, with sharp geometric shapes and planes representing the energy and anticipation of the event.The Raiders' selection of Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft represents a pivotal moment in the team's quest to return to the playoffs for the first time in over two decades.Today in Pittsburgh

Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to its first national championship, is the overwhelming favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft. The rest of the draft is less clear-cut, with Alabama's Ty Simpson expected to be the only other quarterback taken in the first round.

Why it matters

The Raiders haven't won a playoff game since losing the Super Bowl following the 2002 season and have only reached the postseason twice in that span. They need Mendoza to be a franchise quarterback to help turn the team around and end their long drought.

The details

Mendoza didn't participate in on-field drills at the combine last month but plans to showcase his skills at Indiana's pro day next week. He is a precise pocket passer with prototypical size, poise and maturity. The Raiders have some playmakers in Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty and spent more than a quarter-billion in free agency. Having part-owner Tom Brady around for advice should also help Mendoza's transition to the NFL.

  • Mendoza plans to showcase his skills at Indiana's pro day next week.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on April 23.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The Heisman Trophy winner who led Indiana to its first national championship, and is an overwhelming favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Ty Simpson

The Alabama quarterback whose stock is rising among analysts and is expected to be the only other quarterback taken in the first round.

Brock Bowers

One of the playmakers the Raiders have on their roster.

Ashton Jeanty

One of the playmakers the Raiders have on their roster.

Tom Brady

The Raiders' part-owner who can provide advice to Mendoza.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a program changer.”

— Ty Simpson

What’s next

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The takeaway

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