Raiders Face Franchise-Defining Decision: Fernando Mendoza or Lamar Jackson?
It’s only January, but the 2026 NFL Draft is already shaping up to be one of the most pivotal moments in recent memory - especially for the Las Vegas Raiders. With the No. 1 overall pick in hand, the Silver and Black are staring down a franchise-altering decision.
At the center of it all? Fernando Mendoza, the record-setting quarterback out of Indiana.
Mendoza isn't just another top prospect. He’s the kind of quarterback who forces front offices to reevaluate their entire plan.
This past season, he led Indiana to an undefeated campaign, completing 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. That’s not just efficient - that’s elite production at the college level.
Scouts love his poise in the pocket, his command of the offense, and the way he processes the game. He doesn’t just play quarterback - he runs the show.
And that’s exactly why many around the league believe the Raiders are locked in on Mendoza. He fits the mold of a long-term solution under center - a cost-controlled, high-upside quarterback who could grow with the team as it rebuilds under new leadership.
But this is the NFL. Nothing stays quiet for long.
This week, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler dropped a report that sent shockwaves through the league: at least one NFL executive believes the Baltimore Ravens could consider trading Lamar Jackson. And yes, the Raiders were mentioned as a team to watch.
That’s not just a rumor - that’s a potential earthquake.
According to Fowler, the idea of a deal centered around the No. 1 pick - essentially, the rights to Mendoza - along with future 2027 draft capital, is being floated. One evaluator put it bluntly: “It just seems like there’s been some consternation there with Lamar and the Ravens, and this would be the ultimate Mark Davis move. I’m not even convinced everybody with Vegas would be on board with it, but it would instantly solve their quarterback problems.”
That’s the crux of the debate. Do the Raiders go all-in on a proven superstar in Jackson, a two-time MVP who instantly raises the floor - and ceiling - of any offense he joins? Or do they stick with the long-term vision and build around Mendoza, a potential franchise quarterback still on a rookie deal?
Predictably, fans weren’t shy about weighing in. Social media lit up with reactions - and most weren’t thrilled about the idea of sending Mendoza and future picks to Baltimore.
“That’s a bad deal for the Raiders,” one fan wrote, echoing the sentiment of many who believe the team isn’t on the same timeline as Jackson. Another pointed out the value of a quarterback on a rookie contract: “A cost-controlled QB is the best asset in football.”
Others focused on the roster around Jackson. The concern?
That the Raiders aren’t built to support him. “Lamar Jackson is not going to single-handedly turn that waste of a franchise around,” one fan said.
“If LJ comes in there, then that line and lack of skill players will end his career.”
It’s a fair point. The Raiders still have work to do - particularly in the trenches and at the skill positions. Dropping a high-priced veteran into that mix without the infrastructure to support him could be a recipe for frustration.
Through it all, Mendoza has remained composed. Appearing on NBC’s TODAY show this past Friday, he was asked directly about the Raiders. His answer was measured, respectful, and showed the kind of maturity teams love to see.
“The Raiders have a great culture, have a great coaching staff, great ownership group,” Mendoza said. “Those are legit guys. I’d be happy to end anywhere.”
That’s the kind of answer that keeps doors open - and keeps the pressure squarely on the Raiders’ front office.
So here’s where things stand. Las Vegas holds the keys to the draft.
They can take the swing on a generational college quarterback and build from the ground up. Or they can make a blockbuster move for a proven MVP and try to fast-track their return to relevance.
One path is patient and calculated. The other is bold and immediate.
The clock is ticking. And until draft night arrives, Fernando Mendoza will remain the name at the center of every conversation in Raider Nation - and across the NFL.