Summary
The Las Vegas Raiders are likely to pick Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first in the 2026 NFL draft. The team needs a new quarterback after a tough season, and ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. thinks Mendoza could help improve the team if they make some changes. The Raiders had one of the worst offenses last season, so there is hope Mendoza can help them do better.
Key Facts
- The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to choose Fernando Mendoza from Indiana as their top pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
- The Raiders need a new quarterback after Geno Smith's poor performance last season.
- The team has a new head coach, Klint Kubiak, and plans to build the offense around a new quarterback.
- ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. believes Mendoza is the best quarterback in this draft class.
- The Raiders were last in the NFL for total offense and ranked 28th in passing offense last season.
- Mel Kiper Jr. suggests that adding new receivers and improving the offensive line could help Mendoza succeed.
- The Raiders have struggled with drafting quarterbacks in the past two decades.
