In a surprising twist just weeks before the 2026 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders have signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. This move comes amidst widespread expectations that the Raiders would draft Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 pick. The decision aligns with earlier reports suggesting the team doesn't plan to rush Mendoza into NFL action.
For many NFL insiders, this signing signals a lack of complete confidence in the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner. Analyst Jason Whitlock shared his perspective on his “Fearless” podcast, expressing skepticism about Mendoza's potential as the top pick.
Whitlock remarked, “This is a red flag for Fernando Mendoza. He’s got the intangibles and the talent to be a starting quarterback, maybe even a Super Bowl winner.
But he’s not a No. 1 overall pick. When you have a No. 1 pick, you don’t bring in a backup plan.”
Despite this move, it’s expected that the Raiders, led by Tom Brady, will still select Mendoza as the draft's top choice. Having Cousins in the mix offers Mendoza valuable time to acclimate to the NFL pace in his rookie season.
Whitlock continues to assert that Mendoza might be overrated as the No. 1 pick. After a stellar season leading Indiana in 2025, Mendoza is seen as the draft’s top passer. Yet, Whitlock questions if he truly deserves the first-overall selection.
“Fernando has fantastic intangibles,” Whitlock said. “People love his Tom Brady-like qualities, but remember, those qualities had Brady drafted in the sixth round.
They’re pushing Fernando to No. 1 overall. I think he’s being overdrafted, and the Raiders hinted at that by signing Cousins.”
Mendoza is celebrated for his accuracy, intelligence, and elite timing as a pocket passer. However, concerns about his average arm strength and limited mobility under pressure have led some analysts to question his readiness for the top spot.