Las Vegas Raiders tabbed Fernando Mendoza, a former Indiana quarterback, with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The selection marks a significant move for the Raiders, aligning Mendoza with new head coach Kubiak's scheme. Analysts have pointed to Mendoza's purported toughness and accuracy, noting his extensive film study of established NFL quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, Matthew Stafford, and Brock Purdy. His transition to the professional level will see him vie for the starting role against veteran Kirk Cousins and Aidan O'Connell. ==Mendoza's path to the top pick, despite being a three-star recruit, highlights a perceived "shoo-in status" not solely based on overwhelming talent, but perhaps on other factors.**
In a surprising turn, the Los Angeles Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13. Simpson, hailing from Alabama, is seen as a projection to right tackle, a move that diverges from typical quarterback selections at that position. His collegiate career has been shadowed by injuries, including a broken foot just before the combine. Scouts note his physical presence and ability to power through routes, though his head-down running style can sometimes lead to a loss of ball carrier awareness.
Read More: Raiders pick QB Fernando Mendoza first overall in 2026 NFL Draft
The draft's first round saw other notable selections and trades. The New York Jets made multiple first-round acquisitions, including edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech at No. 2 and offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa from Miami at No. 10. The Arizona Cardinals secured running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame at No. 3, a move that comes after a season where their backfield struggled with consistent carry numbers.
Draft Day Trades and Selections
The first round was not without its strategic maneuvers. The Kansas City Chiefs executed a notable trade, moving up from No. 9 to No. 6 to acquire cornerback Mansoor Delane from LSU. This trade involved sending picks No. 74 and No. 141 to the Cleveland Browns. The New England Patriots also made a move, acquiring the No. 28 pick from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for their No. 31 and No. 125 selections.
Read More: Chargers pick Akheem Mesidor at 22 in 2026 NFL Draft
Several players noted for their potential fell lower than anticipated. Rueben Bain Jr., an edge rusher from Miami, was projected as a top-10 pick but landed with the Baltimore Ravens at No. 15. Conversely, some lesser-heralded players, or "sleepers," found homes earlier than expected. Max Iheanachor, an offensive tackle from Arizona State, was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 21.
Background and Player Narratives
Fernando Mendoza's journey to No. 1 is painted with a narrative of resilience. He reportedly draws his toughness from playing high school football at a young age and has publicly spoken about his admiration for NFL quarterbacks. ==His interviews have been noted for their "genuine postgame excitement," contributing to his rising profile. He has been described as a "natural match" for the Raiders' new offensive system, with his arm strength noted as "a notch below elite" but compensated by "supreme accuracy." His preparation reportedly included guidance from former quarterback and 49ers coach Brian Griese**. Despite being ranked No. 3 on Dane Brugler's top 300 big board, some analysts suggested Mendoza's top selection was not purely due to exceptional quarterbacking ability, but rather a broader projection of franchise potential.
Read More: Mets Win 10-8 After Bullpen Mix-up on Thursday
Ty Simpson's collegiate path at Arizona State was hampered by injuries, raising questions about his durability. His physical build and strength are acknowledged assets for an offensive lineman, but his tendency to keep his head down while running could be a concern at the professional level.
The draft order itself reflected a dynamic landscape of team needs and strategic foresight. Teams like the Giants and Cowboys appeared to "double down" on their first-round investments, while other selections, such as the Dolphins' pick of offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor at No. 12, solidified their lines with physically imposing players.
Read More: 2025 NFL Draft: Patriots pick Will Campbell, Giants take Abdul Carter
