Should the Raiders Select Fernando Mendoza in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Recently in the NFL, we have seen teams drafting quarterbacks and expecting them to start and run a team even though the year prior they were in college. Rookie led teams have led to a lot of disappointing seasons for people because of their unreasonable expectations. Rookie quarterbacks are also not being  given a fair shot and deemed a “bust” without proper development.

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - JANUARY 19: QB Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts after a play during the Indiana Hoosiers versus the Miami Hurricanes College Football Playoff National Championship Game Presented by AT&T on January 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire)

With this upcoming draft  there have been countless predictions for the Las Vegas Raiders to pick Fernando Mendoza with the first pick of the 2026 draft. Drafting Mendoza would be devastating for not only the Raiders but also Mendoza.

The Raiders this past year had one of the worst offensive-lines in the league giving up the most sacks (55, tied with titans). Putting a rookie Mendoza in that position will lead to what Justin Fields went through.

The former Raiders star quarterback Derek Carr said that the raiders should only draft Mendoza if they are able to surround him with talent through free agency. If the Raiders are smart they would trade that pick for more picks and look to develop an offensive line and strengthen their defense.