Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek has the chance to draft not only a franchise quarterback but also a future leader for the defense in this three-round mock draft scenario.
Spytek’s role extends beyond just managing the quarterback position. In this hypothetical three-round draft, the team uses its high draft picks to select a potential franchise quarterback and then trades back into the first round to get a key linebacker. The plan is to fortify the defensive unit by appointing a long-term leader.
The idea is simple: a new era for Las Vegas demands more than a single perspective. A new quarterback needs more than just protection, a solid structure, and patience. They also need a defense that can get the ball back and finish games, allowing the offense to develop. The choice of a linebacker is then crucial. The key elements are breadth, effective communication, and consistently striving for excellence.
Spytek’s task was clear-cut. First, he needed to safeguard the franchise’s image. Then, he had to find the right person to speak on its behalf during the defense. Fortunately, the Houston Texans are a dependable team when it comes to trades, and they’re willing to exchange their late first-round selection for extra draft capital.
- Raiders receive: 28th overall pick
- Texans receive: 36th overall pick, 184th overall pick, ’27 4th round pick
Raiders 3-Round Mock Draft: Two future faces of the franchise?
Round 1, No. 1: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
With the top pick at their disposal, the Raiders concentrate on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. He’s the focus of their biggest call in quite some time. In this situation, Las Vegas chooses Mendoza, believing his calmness, accuracy, and ability to stay composed within an offensive structure will be key to a complete team transformation. His physical attributes and field mobility make him an ideal candidate, and his game footage showcases his accuracy, ball placement skills, and calmness under pressure.
While Mendoza may not be recognized for possessing the most powerful throwing arm within his cohort, his appeal stems from his methodology: safeguarding the football, effectively working through progressions, and reliably providing a pass that is easy to catch, regardless of the distance.
For general manager John Spytek, selecting Mendoza would demonstrate a commitment to building a strong team, not just acquiring talented players. This would require a solid offensive line, a well-planned running game, and coaching that helps him make quick decisions under the pressure of NFL games. Should these factors coalesce, Mendoza might just offer Las Vegas a quarterback capable of defining the team’s character and consistently raising their level of play.
Round 1, No. 28: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
Should the Raiders maneuver back into the first round to select Georgia linebacker CJ Allen, they’re essentially investing in calculated speed. Allen closes space like a defensive back, cutting off angles as he chases down a play, and then he arrives with a real thump when he finishes. The film shows a rare ability to recognize plays quickly, including the ability to see formations early, avoid blockers, and make tackles before openings appear.
He tackles with discipline, using a wrapping and driving technique rather than lunging. Additionally, he possesses the agility to carry routes and transition into coverage without appearing stiff. When considering his blitzing ability and advanced block-shedding skills, Allen emerges as more than just a hitter; he also serves as the defense’s communicator and tone-setter.
Round 3, No. 67: Domonique Orange, DL, Iowa State
Should the Raiders select Domonique Orange, the Iowa State defensive lineman, their focus would be on causing havoc during the initial downs, rather than simply looking at his statistical output. At over 300 pounds, Orange possesses surprising first-step burst, exploding into gaps to disrupt running plays and compel ball carriers to alter their paths before they can find a seam.
His lower body is formidable, and his adaptability allows him to excel in both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes. He’s designed to anchor the line while also giving everything on every play—pursuing the action far downfield. The concerns are real: shorter arms could hinder his ability to disengage, he might be vulnerable to penetration, and his pass-rush production isn’t very impressive. The projection features a high-motor, two-down interior.
This trio of players provides Spytek with an exceptional foundation to build upon—a potential franchise quarterback, a defensive stalwart, and a promising defensive lineman.
*Top Photo: Getty Images