Could Fernando Mendoza Be the Answer the Raiders Have Been Waiting For?
If the Las Vegas Raiders use the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Fernando Mendoza, the move won’t come as a surprise-it’ll feel like a calculated step toward long-term stability at quarterback. Mendoza checks all the boxes: sharp football IQ, competitive fire, and the kind of leadership presence that teams covet in a franchise cornerstone. Add in a solid physical profile and a rapid rise up draft boards, and it’s easy to see why Raider Nation is buzzing.
But as with any top pick, the real test begins once the pads go on.
There’s been no shortage of comparisons floating around. Some see shades of Jared Goff-a steady hand who’s played in a Super Bowl and knows how to win.
Others mention Sam Darnold, who took longer to find his footing but is now preparing to start in Super Bowl LX. Either outcome would mark a significant upgrade for a Raiders franchise that’s been searching for its next elite quarterback for years.
But here’s where things get really interesting: NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein just dropped a comp that could send shockwaves through the fanbase-Joe Burrow.
A Burrow-Type Blueprint?
Zierlein’s breakdown of Mendoza paints a picture of a quarterback who thrives on precision and poise. According to the scouting report, Mendoza is a rhythm passer with elite accuracy and command in high-leverage moments. He’s not the type to freelance when a play breaks down, but give him structure, timing, and a clean pocket, and he’ll pick defenses apart.
“Mendoza is a precision-based pocket passer whose game is built on rare accuracy and steady command in high-leverage moments,” Zierlein wrote. “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.”
The report continues: Mendoza is mechanically sound, fearless in reading defenses both before and after the snap, and consistently delivers the ball in stride on routes like digs, slants, outs, and crossers. He’s not going to wow you with arm strength or velocity, but he doesn’t need to-his ball placement does the heavy lifting.
Where he’ll need help is in protection. Zierlein notes Mendoza isn’t particularly mobile in the pocket-“heavy shoes” was the phrase used-and he’ll need a strong offensive line to keep him upright. That’s not necessarily a red flag, but it does mean the Raiders can’t afford to skimp on pass protection if they want to maximize his potential.
Still, the intangibles-character, competitiveness, and a steep developmental curve-suggest Mendoza could grow into a high-level starter within his first three seasons.
The Supporting Cast Is Already Taking Shape
The Raiders aren’t walking into this draft with just hopes and dreams. They’ve got a young nucleus that’s already turning heads.
Brock Bowers brings elite talent at tight end. Ashton Jeanty is a dynamic weapon out of the backfield.
And on the other side of the ball, Maxx Crosby remains one of the most disruptive edge rushers in football, while Kolton Miller anchors the offensive line.
That’s a strong foundation-and it’s about to get even stronger.
Las Vegas holds 10 draft picks and has nearly $100 million in cap space to work with. Combine that with a new head coach who arrives with a strong reputation, and this offseason could be a turning point. The Raiders have the resources to build a complete roster around Mendoza before he ever takes a snap.
And if Mendoza is even close to what Zierlein projects-a quarterback who can elevate those around him and thrive in pressure moments-then Las Vegas could be cooking with gas sooner rather than later.
A New Era in the Desert?
It’s easy to get swept up in offseason optimism. Every fanbase dreams big in February.
But this isn’t just wishful thinking fueled by message boards and highlight reels. This is one of the most respected draft analysts in the game suggesting that the Raiders may be landing a quarterback in the mold of Joe Burrow.
That’s not just a feel-good story. That’s a potential franchise-changer.
For a team that’s cycled through quarterbacks and coaching staffs for what feels like forever, the idea of stability-and star power-at the most important position on the field is more than just appealing. It’s overdue.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed. Mendoza still has to prove it on Sundays.
But the pieces are lining up. The roster is improving.
The leadership is in place. And if Mendoza is who the Raiders believe he is, this team might not just be turning the corner.
They might be ready to sprint through it.