Overview
- Reporting across outlets says Las Vegas is expected to use the No. 1 pick on Indiana quarterback and Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza.
- Former Raiders GM Mike Mayock endorsed Mendoza, praising his arm and accuracy while warning about a slight frame, frequent hits in a run-pass option scheme, and a high sack rate.
- ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. likened Mendoza’s style to Peyton Manning and Matt Ryan and noted he cut down sacks after moving from Cal to Indiana.
- FS1 host Colin Cowherd called for Las Vegas to target Mendoza’s college wideout Omar Cooper Jr. with an early pick, with some analysts ranking Cooper as a top‑20 prospect.
- Roster context drives the push for a receiver, as the Raiders have few proven wideouts beyond All‑Pro tight end Brock Bowers despite adding Jalen Nailor in free agency.