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Raiders Set to Draft Mendoza First in 2026 NFL Draft

3/14/2026

44 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 NFL Draft runs April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding No. 1.
Raiders will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with No. 1.
The draft landscape has shifted after a significant trade involving Geno Smith.
Arvell Reese is projected to go No. 2 to the New York Jets.
Jeremiyah Love, a Notre Dame running back, is likely to go to New York Giants at 5.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NFL Draft on February 8, 1936, at Philadelphia's Ritz-Carlton Hotel revolutionized player recruitment, with the Philadelphia Eagles selecting Jay Berwanger first overall. This structured selection process aimed to enhance competition among teams, laying the groundwork for the NFL's evolution into a multi-billion dollar industry, as seen today with franchises like the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets.

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Story summary

The 2026 NFL Draft runs April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding No. 1.
Raiders will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with No. 1.
The draft landscape has shifted after a significant trade involving Geno Smith.
Arvell Reese is projected to go No. 2 to the New York Jets.
Jeremiyah Love, a Notre Dame running back, is likely to go to New York Giants at 5.

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