With a disappointing 3-14 season over, the Las Vegas Raiders’ attention shifts to the 2026 NFL Draft.
Analysts and fans are debating what Las Vegas should do with the No. 1 pick. Should the Raiders trade down and use the extra picks to build the roster? Or should they use the selection to address their long-running quarterback problem? If they take a quarterback, which young passer is the right player to build around?
Here’s my view: the Tom Brady-led regime has one clear choice—Fernando Mendoza.
The Raiders have a rare opportunity…
Even if this quarterback class is not as strong as future groups, the opportunity to draft the top passer is too rare to ignore. The Raiders do not get many chances to pick first overall. This is the moment to decide who is worth the No. 1 pick.
With that, here are five traits that make the Indiana star the top choice:
Size—You cannot teach it. Mendoza has the build teams want in a modern NFL quarterback. At 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, he can see over the line and has the frame to absorb contact.
Athleticism and accuracy—Mendoza brings enough mobility to handle pressure and extend plays. He is not a highlight-reel runner, but he is effective at escaping the rush, picking up yards, and throwing on the move. He has also improved his completion percentage each season as a starter. What separates him is touch: he layers throws with the right pace and trajectory, a skill not every big quarterback develops.
Production—The résumé is hard to dismiss. A Heisman Trophy and an unbeaten season, so far, tell the story better than a stat dump.
Leadership and maturity—Some people roll their eyes at his interviews, his open faith, or his “nerdy” demeanor. The Raiders should see it differently. Those traits point to steadiness, and steadiness matters in Las Vegas.
NFL readiness—Mendoza looks ready to start early. His pre-snap recognition and quick processing give him a chance to play sooner rather than later. For a team trying to stabilize the position, that matters.
The Raiders can chase extra picks, but the cleanest path out of this cycle is to pick the quarterback who looks most ready to handle the job. With the No. 1 selection, Las Vegas is not just drafting talent—it is choosing a timeline. If that timeline is about stability and function, Mendoza is the bet.
*Top Photo: Getty Images