The Las Vegas Raiders are eyeing Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza for their No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza, fresh off a Heisman-winning season, has caught the attention of many, but not everyone is convinced he's the right fit for the Raiders.
Former New York Jets scout Daniel Kelly shared his concerns on Fox Sports Radio's "Straight Fire" podcast, pointing out Mendoza's struggles under pressure. This is a critical consideration for the Raiders, who have allowed the second-most sacks in the league over the past two seasons. Kelly expressed skepticism about placing Mendoza behind a line that has struggled to protect its quarterbacks, calling it a "recipe for disaster."
Despite Mendoza's impressive 2025 season, where he led the Hoosiers to their first National Championship with 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and just six interceptions, Kelly remains cautious. He currently values Mendoza as a fourth-round pick, suggesting that selecting him in the early rounds could be a misstep.
Adding to the debate, NFL analyst Rob Rang ranks Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love above Mendoza as the top offensive prospect in this draft class. Rang respects Mendoza's achievements but questions his arm strength and ability to execute dynamic plays against NFL defenses.
As the draft approaches, the Raiders face a significant decision. Will they take a chance on Mendoza's potential, or will they heed the warnings and consider other options? The clock is ticking, and the stakes are high.