The Las Vegas Raiders will have the number one pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Las Vegas recently signed quarterback Kirk Cousins to a contract and many are wondering if they are even going to draft Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza number one overall now. There are some questions about if it will happen and there are some that believe it is still going to happen anyways.
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Mar 31, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak during the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Knowing that this is the Raiders organization, anything is possible. Mendoza should be the number one pick anyways, but maybe Las Vegas will have cold feet at the last second and decide to draft someone else number one overall.
The Athletic Has the Las Vegas Raiders Selecting QB Fernando Mendoza Despite Kirk Cousins Signing
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Fernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Nick Baumgardner of the Athletic created his latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft. The 2026 NFL Draft is not that far away now. With the number one overall pick, he has the Raiders selecting Mendoza despite the team signing Cousins to the roster. Baumgardner said,
“Not only does this pairing feel like a lock, butLas Vegas’ addition of Kirk Cousinsmakes the situation Mendoza is about to enter that much better. Mendoza still will have a chance to start as a rookie, but either way, he’ll be able to pick the brain of a proven veteran — one who will be more than gracious with sharing knowledge.
This was a good fit before; it feels like a great one now.”
Well, this is interesting. They probably want Cousins to mentor him. Does that mean the Raiders don’t want to start Mendoza right away even when they draft him? It remains to be seen what the plans are.
Mendoza led Indiana to a 16-0 season, a national title, and also won a Heisman Trophy. Last season with the Hoosiers, he completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Mendoza also rushed for 276 yards on 90 carries and seven touchdowns, along with averaging 3.1 yards per carry. He is 6’5″ and weighs 225 lbs.
With a new head coach, Klint Kubiak at the helm, it remains to be seen what will happen. He was the Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator last season. Cousins and Mendoza will most likely have a training camp battle for the starting quarterback job in 2026 for the Raiders in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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