Raiders Plan Patient Rebuild with Mendoza

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NFL News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The Las Vegas Raiders look ready to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After a rough three win, 14 lost season in 2025, they earned that top spot, and Mendoza's star power makes it a near certainty. Mendoza just won the Heisman Trophy and guided the Hoosiers to a national championship in the college football playoffs. Confident in his draft stock, he skipped the scouting combine altogether, while the Raiders still scouted other prospects. Raiders' general manager John Spitek shared his thoughts on building around a young quarterback. He prefers keeping a rookie on the bench at first, letting a veteran handle the starting role to reduce pressure and provide guidance. That approach draws from success stories like Patrick Mahomes behind Alex Smith. For the Raiders, it means relying on current starter Gino Smith, who struggled badly last

1:00season and hasn't talked with Spitek since it ended. Spitek's plan highlights the team's roster gaps, so finding the right mentor could be key before Mendoza arrives. The offseason moves will show if they're serious about a patient rebuild. Appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. Headphones in a pillow. Simple idea. Surprisingly addictive, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-I-S-O-L-I-S-O-L-I-S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.