Fernando Mendoza — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

Ultra-accurate quarterback who is able to pick apart defenses -- provided he gets proper protection.

This is a very easy decision for the Raiders -- draft the quarterback. The Geno Smith trade did not work out, and the 2026 class features only one passer with a first-round grade. My No. 4 overall player, Mendoza gives the Raiders a franchise-caliber quarterback with excellent poise, decision-making, accuracy and toughness both in and out of the pocket, which he showed in winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to the national championship.

He can start from day one, and the Raiders have the offensive infrastructure around him in tackle Kolton Miller, running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers. Mendoza's experience and proven ability to elevate those around him should make him a lock here.

Mendoza is a poised, accurate passer who has plus arm talent, consistently delivering catchable balls on time and in rhythm and excelling on layered second-level routes. He shows NFL-level field vision and coverage recognition, consistently ripping throws with anticipation. While not a true creator, Mendoza navigates collapsing pockets effectively and can make accurate off-platform throws, showing a calm, efficient style reminiscent of Jared Goff.

There's no need to overcomplicate this. Mendoza was the best quarterback in the country this past season, earning a 90.7 PFF passing grade overall and a 70.6 PFF passing grade under pressure. I gave him a higher prospect grade than Cam Ward, the No. 1 pick in 2025. He will be a Raider.

The Raiders ranked last in total offense this season. They not only need a quality quarterback, but also a franchise game changer.

Enter Mendoza, who blends the requisite rocket arm with every positive intangible teams desire. Don't mistake his unbridled optimism for weakness — he's as tough as any quarterback in the game.

The Raiders begin another new era with the Heisman Trophy winner/national champion installed at quarterback. As a classic dropback passer with a winning pedigree, Mendoza is the perfect fit for Tom Brady and the rest of the brass in Vegas.

Mendoza clearly distanced himself from the rest of the field at quarterback this past season, culminating in Indiana's first ever national title. With 39 touchdowns and no interceptions in the red zone since 2024, the Heisman Trophy winner offers the kind of rare production the Raiders can't pass up.