As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, speculation is reaching a fever pitch around Fernando Mendoza, the Indiana quarterback widely projected by experts as the top overall selection.
Yet, despite mock drafts and analysts largely linking him to the Las Vegas Raiders‘ No. 1 pick, the franchise is resisting pressure to publicly commit, signaling that its evaluation process remains firmly in motion.
Mendoza‘s draft stock has soared thanks to a spectacular collegiate career that culminated in a historic season for the Hoosiers and widespread recognition as one of the most polished passers in this year’s class. Many draft projections have the Raiders selecting him first overall, and community mock drafts continue to reflect that sentiment.
Still, Las Vegas general manager John Spytek made clear on ESPN‘s NFL Live that no final decision has been made.
“No breaking news today,” Spytek said. “And it’s the question everybody wants to know, but I’ll just keep saying the same thing. We’ve got a process, we’re gonna follow it, and we’re gonna make the best decision we can for the Raiders.”
Raiders deliberate while Mendoza buzz builds
Even as Spytek declines to confirm a selection, the broader draft landscape continues to elevate Mendoza‘s profile. According to NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah,
Mendoza is already getting familiar with the Raiders‘ offense, working with former NFL quarterback Brian Griese to install elements of the system the team plans to run. That sort of early engagement is unusual for prospects prior to the draft and suggests a level of mutual interest.
Mendoza‘s Pro Day, where he is expected to throw in front of scouts and executives, represents another key data point for teams ahead of April’s draft. Spytek confirmed that Las Vegas will be in attendance, emphasizing the importance of seeing prospects compete in every environment possible.
“We will be there,” Spytek confirmed. “I think it’s prudent that we go to all the touch points that we can to see all the great players that are out there. And I think at any pro day, you just wanna see guys compete and show up and be there for their teammates and put their best foot forward.”
The Raiders have also scheduled a private workout with Mendoza, giving their decision-makers another chance to evaluate his skills and personality up close.
Mendoza‘s profile in this draft class is strong. Most mock drafts place him atop the board due to his combination of size, accuracy, leadership, and collegiate production.
At Indiana, he was a standout performer who drew national attention and Heisman Trophy consideration, which has translated into a consensus among many evaluators that he’s the best quarterback in the class.
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