In a move that’s sure to send shockwaves through the NFL, Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from the University of Indiana, has been selected by the Las Vegas Raiders as their No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, one that could change the trajectory of the team for years to come.

Fernando Mendoza: The Future of the Raiders’ Offense

Mendoza’s rise to the top has been nothing short of spectacular. After leading the Indiana Hoosiers to a perfect season and a National Championship in 2025, he claimed the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his status as the best quarterback in college football.

His performance throughout the season — throwing for over 4,000 yards and 40 touchdowns — demonstrated not only his arm strength but also his ability to thrive under pressure.

Standing at 6’5″ and 225 pounds, Mendoza has the size, athleticism, and skill set to be a franchise quarterback. His mobility and ability to read defenses make him a dual-threat, capable of making plays both in the pocket and on the run.

The Raiders are hoping his college success translates seamlessly to the NFL, where they’ve been searching for a true leader under center.

Why Mendoza Was the Raiders’ No. 1 Choice

After a disappointing 2025 season that saw the Raiders miss the playoffs, the team needed a new direction. The No. 1 pick was an opportunity for the franchise to find a quarterback who could be the face of the team for years to come — and Mendoza, with his Heisman-winning pedigree and championship experience, was the clear choice.

Not only does Mendoza have the physical tools, but his leadership and poise have been key to his success. In high-stakes moments throughout his college career, Mendoza has proven he can handle pressure and make the big plays when needed. The Raiders are hoping he can do the same at the next level.

A New Chapter for the Raiders

Mendoza will now step into the spotlight in Las Vegas, where expectations are sky-high.

The Raiders have a strong roster with Davante Adams, Josh Jacobs, and a defensive line that can generate pressure. With Mendoza leading the offense, the team believes it’s poised for a rebuild that could propel them back into playoff contention in the coming years.

However, the road ahead won’t be easy. Mendoza will need to adapt quickly to the NFL’s speed and physicality, and the Raiders will need to surround him with the right weapons. But if his college career is any indication, Mendoza has the talent and mental makeup to thrive in the NFL.

Lamar Jackson Trade Rumors: Could the Raiders Still Make a Move?

As if the drama of drafting Mendoza wasn’t enough, the Raiders are still being linked to Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens.

Despite drafting Mendoza, trade rumors have swirled around the possibility of the Raiders attempting to move their No. 1 pick in exchange for Jackson, a former MVP and one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league.

While Jackson’s name has been tossed around, the Raiders’ front office has made it clear that their focus is on building for the future with Mendoza.

There’s no denying Jackson’s skill set, but the franchise believes they have their quarterback of the future in Mendoza. However, given the volatility of the NFL offseason, this could be a storyline to watch as the Raiders finalize their roster for 2026.

What’s Next for Mendoza and the Raiders?

With Mendoza now officially part of the Raiders’ franchise, the team can begin to shift its focus to developing him into the star quarterback they’ve been searching for. The next step will be to surround him with an offensive line that can protect him, as well as playmakers who can take advantage of his arm and mobility.

Las Vegas has been home to some of the NFL’s most iconic quarterbacks, and now Mendoza has the chance to carve his own path alongside the likes of Daryle Lamonica, Rich Gannon, and Derek Carr.

The pressure is on, but Mendoza has shown time and time again that he thrives in high-pressure situations. If he can replicate his college success at the NFL level, the Raiders’ future looks very bright indeed.

An anonymous AFC coach’s warning about George Pickens has introduced fresh unease into what had been a feel‑good chapter for the Dallas Cowboys. The veteran coach suggested Pickens may balk at a franchise tag, and that possibility has prompted talk of a drawn‑out offseason standoff that could leave the Cowboys scrambling.

Pickens exploded onto the scene after his trade to Dallas, delivering career highs that vaulted him into the top tier of NFL receivers. That production increased his leverage this spring, and the franchise tag price is expected to be roughly $28 million, a figure some believe will not satisfy the wide receiver’s long‑term expectations.

Dec 25, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders cornerback Noah Igbinoghene (6) breaks up a touchdown pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) in the second quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Contract brinkmanship is familiar territory for the Cowboys, who have seen recent high‑profile negotiations drag into training camp and complicate preparations. The optics of another tense negotiation carry risks beyond a missed offseason program: chemistry concerns, reduced offseason reps and the potential for a star player to sit out until an agreement is reached.

For Dallas, the calculus is complicated by cap realities and roster construction. Committing to an expensive long‑term deal for Pickens would secure a dynamic playmaker, but it would also constrain flexibility at other positions. Conversely, tagging him buys time but creates a hard deadline and the possibility of a protracted standoff that benefits neither side.

The Cowboys must weigh precedent and personality. Pickens has previously clashed with the organization that drafted him, and evaluators around the league note his mix of elite talent and past discipline questions. That background increases the chance negotiations could become fractious if terms do not meet his market value.