What happened

With the No. 1 overall pick, the Raiders selected Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza in the 2026 NFL Draft. The draft is broadcast on NFLN, ESPN, ABC and streamed on NFL+. Schefter shared a GMFB video amid ongoing first-round selections.

Why it matters

Mendoza was the expected top choice, graded highly by analysts as about as good as it gets. The pick fills a key need for Las Vegas entering 2026 season. Sets early tone for draft with trades like Cowboys moving up.

The data edge

Draft picks from context: - 1.01: Raiders - Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana) - 1.11: Cowboys (trade up) - Caleb Downs No odds or stats available.

What to watch

Monitor Eagles trade-up for Makai Lemon at No. 20 and Jets first-rounder Kenyon Sadiq.