The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. The 22-year-old was widely projected as the top prospect after a standout college season.
Mendoza, who played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, was named the best player in college football last season, when he led the Golden Bears to a 12-1 record and a berth in the College Football Playoff. He threw for 4,200 yards and 38 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions.
The Raiders, who held the No. 1 pick after finishing 4-13 in 2025, are hoping Mendoza can revitalize a franchise that has struggled at quarterback since the departure of Derek Carr. Mendoza is expected to compete for the starting job immediately.
