Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza opts out of combine throws, focusing on his Pro Day. Raiders eye their franchise-altering No. 1 pick.
The Las Vegas Raiders will be looking to redeem themselves in a big way in 2026 after a three-win season in 2025. Selecting No. 1 overall is the first step in that process, and the consensus pick all along has been Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Mendoza was great in his junior season in college, leading the FBS with 41 passing touchdowns on his way to 3,535 yards. At just 22 years old, Mendoza led Indiana to glory for the first time in school history, beating out the University of Oregon to win the National Championship back in January. To top it off, Mendoza took home the Heisman Trophy.
Not only has Mendoza solidified himself as the best prospect on this year’s draft boards, but he perfectly fits with what the Raiders need. The quarterback play in Las Vegas last season was abysmal despite making a trade last offseason for their preferred quarterback, Geno Smith.
Smith ended up leading the league in interceptions in his reunion with head coach Pete Carroll, and the Las Vegas offense finished at the bottom of the league. Despite promising young players like tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty, it’s clear the Raiders need more.
All signs are pointing towards Mendoza being that. The Raiders desperately need somebody who can change the direction of the franchise. With only two playoff appearances since 2003, a shift is needed in the Raiders organization. With Mendoza set to pair up with Bowers and Jeanty, they will be set up with one of the strongest young cores in football.
With nothing else left to prove before the NFL Draft in April, Mendoza has decided he won't be throwing at the combine this week. Instead, the Heisman winner will be throwing at Indiana’s Pro Day in April to showcase his pass catchers in college.
It’s another example of why Mendoza is the clear choice at No. 1 overall this spring. Not only do the Raiders need good play at quarterback, but they also need a leader. They need somebody capable of causing a shift in a franchise that hasn’t seen meaningful success in decades.
With an immensely important offseason ahead, the Raiders are set to be a much different team in 2026. They have tons of cap space available, impactful young players, and will have the opportunity to select Mendoza first in the draft. Despite the constant struggles of 2025, this season should be much more rewarding for Raiders fans, and it all starts with Mendoza’s name being called.