Raiders pick Fernando Mendoza first overall in 2026 NFL Draft

The Las Vegas Raiders picked Fernando Mendoza first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. This is the first time in years the Raiders have picked a quarterback this high.
By Newsroom | Sports, American Football |

Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback from Indiana, was selected first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders. This selection marks a significant move for the Raiders, who address their long-term quarterback needs. Mendoza, known for his activity on professional networking platforms, posted a celebratory message on LinkedIn shortly after being drafted.

The draft saw other notable early selections, including Jeremiyah Love, a running back from Notre Dame, taken third overall by the Arizona Cardinals. This pick places Love as the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley. The New York Jets bolstered their offense at pick No. 16, selecting tight end Kenyon Sadiq, with projections indicating potential for significant targets and receptions in his rookie season. The Philadelphia Eagles also added offensive talent, drafting wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20. His selection suggests a potential shift in the Eagles' wide receiver corps, possibly involving the trade of A.J. Brown, opening volume opportunities for Lemon.

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Follow along in ESPN's Draftcast: Analysis for every pick - 1

The Kansas City Chiefs made a notable trade, moving up to acquire the No. 6 pick from the Cleveland Browns, using it to select cornerback Delane. Elsewhere, the Indianapolis Colts picked Penn State tight end Tyler Warren at No. 14, and the Pittsburgh Steelers chose Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with the 21st overall selection, despite earlier speculation about quarterback needs.

The draft coverage extended across multiple platforms, with ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network providing unique presentations of the first round on Thursday, April 23rd. More than 60 commentators were on-site, including prominent figures like Mel Kiper Jr., Daniel Jeremiah, and Field Yates. Complementary coverage was available through ESPN digital shows, podcasts, and ESPN Radio.

Details on other selections include the New York Jets taking OT Armand Membou at No. 7, and the San Francisco 49ers considering needs at offensive tackle, edge rusher, wide receiver, center, and safety with pick No. 27, where prospects like Jermod McCoy and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren were potential targets. Player analysis highlighted prospects such as Proctor, described as having "rare size and length" and speed in pursuit, and an "interior defender whose play needs more polish."

Read More: 2026 NFL Draft: Raiders Pick First as Teams Need OL, QB

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was the first player picked in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. This pick addresses the Raiders' long-term needs at the quarterback position.
Q: Which running back was drafted high in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame was chosen third overall by the Arizona Cardinals. This makes him the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley.
Q: How did the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles improve their offense in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The New York Jets selected tight end Kenyon Sadiq at pick No. 16, and the Philadelphia Eagles drafted wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20. These picks could lead to more targets and receptions for new players.
Q: What were some other notable picks in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Kansas City Chiefs traded up to pick cornerback Delane at No. 6. The Indianapolis Colts picked tight end Tyler Warren at No. 14, and the Pittsburgh Steelers selected defensive tackle Derrick Harmon at No. 21.