Las Vegas Raiders pick Fernando Mendoza first in the 2026 NFL Draft

Mendoza, who was widely expected to be the top pick on Thursday, led the Indiana Hoosiers to their first national championship earlier this year.

The Las Vegas Raiders have selected Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 draft pick of 2026, locking up the promising quarterback as was widely expected.

Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to their first national championship earlier this year.

He now joins the Raiders to learn under veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who joined the team this offseason. He will also be mentored by seven-time Super Bowl winner and part-owner of the team, Tom Brady.

The remaining teams making up the first five picks of the first round tonight:

2. New York Jets - David Bailey, edge rusher from Texas Tech

The New York Jets selected edge rusher David Bailey second overall.

Bailey, who played for Texas Tech and notched 14.5 sacks last season, will help fill out the defensive profile for the Jets. He joins Joseph Ossai and Will McDonald IV.

3. Arizona Cardinals - Jeremiyah Love, running back from Notre Dame

The Cardinals took running back Jeremiyah Love third overall.

Love was noted for his high maneuverability when running the ball and his willingness to provide pass protection.

4. Tennessee Titans - Carnell Tate, wide receiver from Ohio State

The Tennessee Titans selected wide receiver Carnell Tate fourth overall.

Tate's strengths include his high efficiency on route and the ability to poke holes in zone coverage. Scouts highlighted his ball handling skills and reliability while in traffic.

5. New York Giants

MORE ON TONIGHT'S DRAFT | 2026 NFL Draft: Full order, top prospects and how to watch

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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