Fernando Mendoza has been selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL draft.
The young quarterback said he was "very excited, proud and very honored" to be chosen first, adding, "I’m just ready to get started" and calling the Raiders’ organization a "historical team with a great legacy."
Raiders’ veterans, including defensive end Maxx Crosby, reacted positively to the pick, with Crosby saying, "I’m f—in’ hyped" and teammate Alec Ingold calling Mendoza "a special player" and "a special kid."
Team owner Mark Davis has also welcomed Mendoza, saying the Raiders are "betting on the future" by taking a young, accomplished passer with the first overall pick.
