Summary
Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the top pick in the 2026 NFL draft to the Las Vegas Raiders after winning the national championship. Some question whether joining the Raiders is a good move, partly due to the team's poor recent performance. Analyst Stephen A. Smith suggested that Raiders minority owner Tom Brady should make key decisions for improving the team.
Key Facts
- Fernando Mendoza played as quarterback for Indiana Hoosiers and is expected to be the first pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
- Mendoza led the Hoosiers to a national championship victory and won the Heisman Trophy.
- The Las Vegas Raiders, who might draft Mendoza, have a poor performance record, with only two playoff appearances in the last 20 years and none since 2002.
- In 2025, the Raiders had a 3-14 record and one of the lowest-rated offenses in the league.
- Stephen A. Smith criticized the Raiders on ESPN, saying Tom Brady is the only positive aspect of the team.
- Smith suggested that Tom Brady should have decision-making power in drafting Mendoza, rather than the general manager, John Spytek.
- Mendoza's achievements at Indiana include 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and only six interceptions in a season.
- The situation at the Raiders parallels Indiana's situation before Mendoza and Coach Curt Cignetti's arrival, which saw significant improvements afterwards.
