2026 NFL Draft Buzz: Raiders Eye Heisman Winner Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 as Teams Map Ideal Top Picks

With the 2026 NFL Draft just weeks away on April 23, the Las Vegas Raiders are heavily projected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza first overall, while every team eyes their dream top-two picks to rebuild rosters in the offseason.

Las Vegas Raiders are projected to land the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza as the overwhelming favorite.

By James Whitfield, Sports Editor | 2026-04-02

The 2026 NFL offseason is heating up as teams finalize their draft strategies ahead of the April 23 selection in a pivotal year for roster rebuilds. NFL.com's latest analysis highlights ideal top-two picks for every franchise, considering recent draft history and pressing needs. For the Raiders, all eyes are on quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion from college football.

Raiders' Obsession with Fernando Mendoza

Fernando Mendoza has dominated mock drafts, appearing in 80% of them as the Raiders' No. 1 overall selection. NFL Pro's breakdown emphasizes his fit in new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's system, which prioritizes structure and quick decision-making over off-script improvisation.

Mendoza's college tape shows promise in play-action scenarios, though he needs to sharpen his timing. Kubiak's offense, known for decisive reads pre- and post-snap, could accelerate Mendoza's development into a franchise quarterback. Raiders fans are buzzing about pairing him with existing weapons to revitalize a stagnant offense.

This projection aligns with the team's desperate need at quarterback after a disappointing 2025 season that landed them the top pick. Mendoza's championship pedigree makes him a safe bet to end the Raiders' playoff drought.

Ideal Top-Two Picks Across the League

NFL.com's comprehensive mock exercise projects optimal first- and second-round selections for all 32 teams, even those without first-rounders like the Falcons, Packers, Colts, Jaguars, and Broncos. The analysis factors in recent drafts to avoid positional redundancies and maximize value.

For quarterback-needy teams, elite prospects like Mendoza top the board, but defensive talents and offensive linemen dominate mid-round value. The exercise went four rounds deep for some, ensuring realistic board management without duplicating players.

Teams like the Carolina Panthers might target edge rushers to bolster their pass rush, while offensive line reinforcements go to squads like the New England Patriots. This approach gives fans—even those with later picks—realistic excitement about their hauls.

Mendoza's Fit in Kubiak's System

Klint Kubiak's offense demands precision, contrasting with freewheeling schemes like those of the Chiefs or Bills. Mendoza excels in structured environments, using his pre-snap reads to exploit defenses quickly.

His Heisman campaign featured efficient passing and dual-threat ability, but NFL success hinges on consistent diagnosis of coverages. Raiders' staff believes Kubiak's play-calling will refine these skills, potentially fast-tracking Mendoza to starter status.

Comparisons to past Kubiak-coached quarterbacks highlight Mendoza's arm talent and mobility as perfect matches. If selected first, he could transform Las Vegas into AFC West contenders overnight.

Teams Without First-Round Picks Get Creative

Five teams—Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Denver Broncos—lack first-round selections due to prior trades or penalties. NFL.com's mock creatively projects their second-round gems as potential steals.

Denver, picking at No. 108, targets secondary help or trench reinforcements to complement their young core. Packers fans might salivate over a versatile linebacker falling into their lap.

This exercise underscores the draft's depth, offering hope that Day 2 yields starters even for teams drafting late. GMs must balance immediate needs with long-term builds.

Broader Offseason Context

The 2026 draft caps a busy offseason following the 2025 regular season's conclusion. No major trades or free agency splashes have rocked the league in the last 72 hours, keeping focus squarely on draft prep.

Teams are dissecting college all-star games and pro days, refining big boards. For the Raiders, Mendoza represents salvation after years of quarterback instability.

League-wide, the emphasis is on trenches and skill positions, with running back depth surprisingly strong. Analysts predict a quarterback-heavy top 10, shaking up the board early.

Playoff Fallout and Draft Implications

Last season's playoff results cemented draft order, with Raiders' struggles earning the top spot. Super Bowl champions from 2025 likely pick last, content with their core intact.

This draft class boasts athletic freaks at premium positions, promising instant impact. Mendoza's pro day performance—strong arm and footwork—solidified his status as QB1.

Fans of non-playoff teams see this as a reset button, while contenders hunt for complementary pieces. The April 23 date can't come soon enough.

Prospect Spotlights Beyond No. 1

While Mendoza hogs headlines, edge rushers like those projected to Carolina offer pass-rush juice. Offensive tackles for rebuilding lines head to squads like the Giants.

Cornerback talent addresses secondary woes across the league. NFL.com's mock balances star power with scheme fits, giving each team tailored hauls.

Second picks often steal the show—think a shutdown corner for the Jets or a mauling guard for the Bears. Depth ensures no team leaves empty-handed.

Raiders' Draft History and Future

Las Vegas has swung and missed on recent quarterback investments, heightening pressure on this selection. Mendoza's accuracy and poise evoke early-career successes elsewhere.

Kubiak's tutelage could mirror his father's successes with young QBs. Pairing Mendoza with a top receiver prospect in Round 2 accelerates the rebuild.

Vegas faithful dream of playoff runs, and this draft positions them well. Mock accuracy will be tested come draft night.

League-Wide Needs Analysis

Quarterback remains king, but offensive line scarcity pushes tackles up boards. Defensive ends with sack production fly off early.

Running backs regain value in committees, while safeties provide back-end stability. Teams like the Broncos target Day 2 values to plug holes.

This class's versatility allows creative GM maneuvers, from trades up to value picks. Excitement builds as boards finalize.

Fan Reactions and Mock Drama

Social media erupts over bold projections, with Raiders fans claiming Mendoza early. Critics question his arm strength under NFL pressure.

Packers supporters rue their lost first-rounder but eye trade-up possibilities. Draft season fuels endless debate and what-ifs.

Every fanbase finds something to love—or hate—in these mocks, keeping engagement high through April.

What's Next for the NFL Calendar

Pro days continue, with key workouts influencing final rankings. Mock drafts intensify, converging on consensus boards.

April 23 marks the main event in prime time, with rounds 2-7 following. Raiders hold their breath for Mendoza's slide-free path to No. 1.

Offseason workouts loom post-draft, integrating rookies quickly. The path to 2026 contention starts here.

As the draft nears, these projections guide expectations and trade talks. Stay tuned for updates as the board shakes out.

Official NFL Scores

Note: Scores and facts were verified live before publication; for ongoing games, only the clearly confirmed score at time of writing is used.