Raiders Select Mendoza First Overall in 2026 NFL Draft
Fernando Mendoza, 22, was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. He did not attend the draft in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, choosing instead to watch the proceedings with his family in Miami, Florida.
A Historic Triple Crown
Mendoza is the third player in NFL history to win the Heisman Trophy, a national championship, and be selected first overall in the same year. The previous players to achieve this were Cam Newton (2011) and Joe Burrow (2020).
College Career at Indiana University
During the 2025 season at Indiana University, Mendoza led the team to its first conference championship since 1967, as well as the program's first national championship and undefeated season. He completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns. In the college football playoffs, he threw 8 touchdowns and 0 interceptions.
Award Sweep
Mendoza became the first Heisman Trophy winner in Indiana University history. He also received the following awards:
- Walter Camp Award
- Maxwell Award
- AP College Football Player of the Year
- Davey O'Brien Award
- Manning Award
- Big Ten Most Valuable Player
Team History and Statements
The Raiders have previously drafted four Heisman Trophy winners: Marcus Allen (1982), Bo Jackson (1987), Tim Brown (1988), and Charles Woodson (1998).
Following the selection, Raiders minority owner Tom Brady posted on social media platform X: "Welcome to Las Vegas. Time to get to work."
Mendoza stated before the draft that Brady had said he would provide guidance to whichever quarterback the team selected.