Raiders Draft Mendoza, Focus on Second Round

0:00With the NFL today, March 20th, the Las Vegas Raiders are projected to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. That move would let General Manager John Spiteck shift focus right away to pick number 36. The fourth spot in the second round, much like when. They grabbed their car back in 2014. Several standouts could fit perfectly there, starting with Florida defensive lineman Kayla Banks, a massive six foot six athlete who impressed at the combined. Wide receivers like Washington's Denzel Boston, a red zone threat with double digit scores over two years, and Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, the most. Versatile player in college football last year would give Mendoza big targets early. Offensive line help is also in playing, with Texas A&M's chase by Santos bringing steady pass protection and elite footwork, or Oregon's Emanuel Pregnant, whose polish and low pressure rate make him start already despite his age. Fans and analysts see this as a smart way to surround

1:04a rookie passer with protection and playmakers, upgrading a line still jelling and speeding up. The offense is growth. Overall, Spiteck's approach signals a full rebuild around young talent, positioning the Raiders to compete for years as Mendoza settles into the pro. Game.