The Las Vegas Raiders could act like they are not positive what they are going to do with the No. 1 choose within the weeks main as much as the 2026 NFL Draft (April 23-25 in Pittsburgh).
These across the league, nevertheless, consider Vegas’ plan is obvious. For a narrative printed Sunday, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler requested eight NFL scouts/executives what the Raiders will do with the highest choose. All voted that the group will preserve it and choose Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (6-foot-5, 225 kilos).
Why league insiders consider the Raiders will goal Fernando Mendoza within the NFL Draft
“The Raiders’ roster is unhealthy, however Mendoza is the perfect participant within the draft, and it is not shut,” an NFC government stated. “You’ll be able to’t go that up. He is correct to all ranges of the sector with an excellent arm, plus measurement and good character.”
This previous season, the Raiders began QB Geno Smith, whom they acquired in a commerce with the Seattle Seahawks in March 2025. He flopped, going 2-13 in 15 begins and tossing a league-leading 17 interceptions.
Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman winner, may give new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak an improve at crucial place. He led the Hoosiers to their first nationwide title in soccer this previous season, throwing an FBS-leading 41 landing passes.
Some Raiders gamers could discover Mendoza’s character eccentric. Vegas defensive finish Maxx Crosby poked enjoyable on the 22-year-old QB for his postgame interview after the Hoosiers upset the Buckeyes 13-10 within the 2025 Massive Ten Championship Sport.
Nevertheless, Mendoza’s character may go to his benefit in Vegas, which wants a breath of recent air after going 7-27 over its final 34 video games.
“That may be his superpower,” one other NFC government informed Fowler. “He is actually that centered, and I feel guys will gravitate towards that.”
And whereas Crosby has kidded the QB for his speeches, he is made it clear he believes Mendoza has what it takes to reach the NFL.
“[Mendoza] is gifted. He’s a giant quarterback. He may make all the massive throws,” the DE stated on his podcast in December 2025 (h/t Raiders on SI’s Michael Canelo). “An underrated athlete. So large shout-out to him. And his speeches are all-time.”
The Raiders will wish to get to know Mendoza higher on the 2026 NFL Scouting Mix at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, which begins on Monday. However all he could should do at this level is present up for interviews and provides cookie-cutter solutions. Vegas taking him with the No. 1 choose almost looks like a forgone conclusion.
