The Raiders selected QB Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza opened his college career at Cal where he ascended from the No. 3 QB to starter in 2023, completing 63% of his passes for the season, with 1,708 yards, 14 TDs, and 10 INTs. He also ran for 98 yards and 2 TDs. He flashed NFL upside in 2023 as the starter despite taking 41 sacks, second most in the FBS. Mendoza transferred to Indiana over his hometown Miami Hurricanes, joining a program that entered 2025 chasing a title after a first-round playoff loss in 2024. Mendoza finished with 3,535 passing yards, 41 TDs, and 6 INTs for the season, adding 276 yards and 7 TDs on the ground. He won the Heisman and led the Hoosiers to a National Championship. Mendoza ranked second among Combine QBs in adjusted completion percentage in 2025 (79%). He was the surefire top pick in the draft.
Draft Sharks Rookie Guide: “Mendoza’s arm strength does not match
recent top prospects such as Caleb Williams, but toughness and situation make him a top-2 rookie pick in superflex drafts. He might open his career backing up Kirk Cousins in Las Vegas, but it’s not a concern for his long-term value.”
The Raiders brought in Kirk Cousins with hopes of bringing Mendoza along slowly. There certainly will be some type of competition, but don’t expect Mendoza to start right away.
That makes Mendoza a tough pick in 1QB redraft leagues though he will likely take over the reins at some point during the season. In Superflex leagues, Mendoza can be stashed on the bench, but don’t expect more than QB2 numbers with a weaker WR room (outside of TE Brock Bowers).
Mendoza offers a strong blend of floor and ceiling. His football IQ and ball placement should translate to efficient NFL passing. His red-zone success points to TD production, especially with Brock Bowers as a primary target. Rushing production adds value. A 300-400-yard season with a few TDs is realistic.
The Raiders appear to be building the right way. They addressed OL through the offseason and will likely address WR later in the draft. Mendoza’s long leash should make him at least a worthy QB2 in dynasty though he will need to improve to become a consistent QB1.
Learn more about Fernando Mendoza’s Dynasty Value
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