Fernando Mendoza drew strong praise from Raiders coach Klint Kubiak, who highlighted the quarterback’s championship pedigree, intelligence and athleticism ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Las Vegas Raiders own the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and are widely expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. After a historic 16–0 season and a national championship run, Mendoza appears to be the clear franchise answer. But new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak is not ready to make that declaration publicly. While acknowledging Mendoza’s talent and leadership, Kubiak made it clear that evaluation comes before assumption. In Las Vegas, nothing is being handed out early.