Fernando Mendoza (Photo: Kevin C. Cox, Getty)
PROJECTION: Round 1 | Pick 1 overall | Las Vegas Raiders
MEASURABLES
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 236 pounds
Hand: 9 1/2"
Arm: 31 7/8"
40-yard Dash: N/A
Vertical Jump: N/A
Broad Jump: N/A
ESPN Overview: As soon as the Raiders were locked in with the No. 1 overall pick, they were expected to select a quarterback, and Mendoza is the clear QB1. Mendoza is a smart, accurate, poised quarterback with enough arm talent and mobility to be a threat, but his trademark is his ability to layer the ball as a thrower to the right spot for his receivers. He threw an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and just six interceptions last season en route to a Heisman Trophy and national championship.
NFL.com Overview: Mendoza is a precision-based pocket passer whose game is built on rare accuracy and steady command in high-leverage moments. He lacks improvisational talent but proved to be a maestro playing the notes on the page with excellent rhythm and few mistakes as the season wore on. Mechanically sound and intensely accurate, Mendoza is fearless in attacking pre- and post-snap reads. He can feather throws into deep windows or between levels. He consistently hits moving targets in stride on digs, slants, outs and crossers. However, he needs plays to stay on schedule as his arm talent and velocity are fairly average. Third-and-long and red-zone execution stand out. Mendoza is big and tough but moves around the pocket with heavy shoes and limited escapability, which could invite excessive hits on Sundays. He can make life easier on his receivers and his play-caller, but above-average pass protection feels like a non-negotiable. He's still young with football to learn and adversity to face, but his character, competitiveness and rapid ascension make it easier to project he will be a very good starter within his first three seasons.
NFL.com Grade: 6.73 (Year One Starter)