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Projected No. 1 Pick Mendoza Skips NFL Draft for Family

4/9/2026

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Summary

Mendoza Skips Draft

Fernando Mendoza, projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will not attend the event in Pittsburgh.
He plans to celebrate with family in Miami, choosing a personal moment over public spotlight.
The draft stock remains unchanged despite his absence.
Mendoza's Heisman Trophy win and Indiana's national championship solidify his status.

Summary

Raiders Select Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 National Football League (NFL) Draft.
They signed Kirk Cousins, but analysts expect Mendoza to become the starter.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. predicts Mendoza could start early.
The National Football League (NFL) Draft begins March 23 in Pittsburgh, with odds favoring Mendoza as the top pick and Cousins expressing confidence.

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Mendoza Skips Draft

Fernando Mendoza, projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will not attend the event in Pittsburgh.
He plans to celebrate with family in Miami, choosing a personal moment over public spotlight.
The draft stock remains unchanged despite his absence.
Mendoza's Heisman Trophy win and Indiana's national championship solidify his status.

1 / 2