Raiders Hold the No. 1 Pick-But Klint Kubiak Isn’t Locking in on Fernando Mendoza Just Yet
The Las Vegas Raiders are sitting on the golden ticket of the 2026 NFL Draft: the No. 1 overall pick. With that kind of power comes a world of possibilities-and pressure. And just when it seemed like Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza was a lock to hear his name called first in April, new head coach Klint Kubiak took a step back from the hype.
In a recent interview, Kubiak was asked about Mendoza, and his response raised more eyebrows than excitement: “Really talented guy with a bright future, and we’ll see where he ends up, but we got a lot of work to do to get to know him before that time.”
That’s not exactly the ringing endorsement fans were expecting. Especially not after Mendoza just capped off a dream season-National Championship, Heisman Trophy, and a performance that had Raiders owner Mark Davis practically envisioning him in silver and black.
But Kubiak’s message was clear: the Raiders are still evaluating. And that’s a big deal.
The Mendoza Question
Mendoza’s résumé is elite. He’s a proven winner, a sharp decision-maker, and a quarterback who thrives in structured systems.
But he’s not the kind of prospect who wows with jaw-dropping athleticism or off-platform throws. He’s more about preparation, precision, and poise.
That’s where things get interesting. Kubiak, stepping into his first head coaching role, might want a quarterback who fits his own vision-someone he handpicks to build around.
That’s a common theme in the NFL. Coaches want their guy, not necessarily the front office’s.
And while Davis has been vocal about his admiration for Mendoza, praising the quarterback’s championship performance during Kubiak’s introductory press conference, the head coach isn’t tipping his hand.
Fanbase Reaction: From Doubt to Deal-Making
As expected, Raiders fans had thoughts-and plenty of them. Some saw Kubiak’s comments as confirmation that Mendoza isn’t a lock. Others immediately pivoted to trade scenarios, suggesting the team could move down and stockpile picks instead of rolling the dice on a single quarterback.
One fan put it bluntly: “We tradin’ that pick!” Another pointed to the 2027 quarterback class, which many scouts believe could be even stronger.
The logic? Trade down now, build up the roster, and be ready to strike next year with a more complete team and more draft capital.
There were also voices who questioned Mendoza’s fit altogether, with one fan calling it a “grave mistake” to draft him, and another noting that Kubiak “wants his own QB and isn’t sold on Mendoza.”
The Bigger Picture in Vegas
The Raiders are in a full-scale rebuild, and Kubiak inherits a roster that’s a work in progress. There are some foundational pieces-tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty among them-but glaring holes remain, particularly along the offensive line and at wide receiver.
That’s where the draft strategy becomes critical. Betting it all on a quarterback like Mendoza might not make sense if the infrastructure around him isn’t ready.
As ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit pointed out recently, Mendoza needs the right system and support to succeed. Dropping him into a shaky situation could stunt his development.
And let’s not forget the external noise. There’s chatter about Maxx Crosby’s future in Vegas, and the pressure to turn things around quickly is real. Trading the top pick for a haul of assets could give the Raiders the flexibility to address multiple needs and build a deeper, more balanced roster.
What Comes Next?
The Raiders have time, but not much. The NFL Combine, pro days, and private workouts will all play a role in shaping their decision. But Kubiak’s comments made one thing clear: nothing is set in stone.
Whether that means a blockbuster trade, a surprise quarterback selection, or a recommitment to Mendoza after further evaluation, the Raiders’ draft plans are very much in flux.
And that’s exactly how Kubiak wants it right now-controlled, methodical, and on his terms.
So buckle up, Raider Nation. The road to April just got a whole lot more interesting.