By Blessing Nweke
The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, confirming expectations after his standout college career.
The 22-year-old entered the draft as the overwhelming favourite following a historic season at Indiana, where he led the program to its first national championship and secured the prestigious Heisman Trophy. His combination of poise, athleticism and leadership made him the clear top choice for a Raiders team looking to rebuild around a franchise quarterback.
Mendoza’s selection places him in elite company. He becomes just the third player to win the Heisman Trophy, a national championship and be drafted first overall in the same year, joining Cam Newton (2011) and Joe Burrow (2020).
Despite the magnitude of the moment, Mendoza chose not to attend the opening night of the three-day draft event in Pittsburgh, opting instead to celebrate privately with family at his home in Miami.
Beyond the top pick, the draft unfolded with a mix of expected and surprising selections. The New York Jets used the second pick on pass rusher David Bailey, reinforcing what analysts had described as a deep defensive class.
However, offense quickly took center stage. The Arizona Cardinals selected running back Jeremiyah Love, while the Tennessee Titans made a surprise move by drafting wide receiver Carnell Tate.
The New York Giants added pass rusher Arvell Reese before the Kansas City Chiefs traded up to sixth overall to select cornerback Mansoor Delane, signaling urgency after missing the playoffs last season.
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