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Raiders Take QB Fernando Mendoza No. 1 Overall

4/24/2026

Summary

Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) with the No. 1 overall pick on April 23, 2026.
Odds list Arvell Reese at –145 and David Bailey at +110 for the second slot, while ESPN analyst Peter Schrager’s final mock puts Bailey at No. 2 and Arizona Cardinals at No. 3 with Jeremiyah Love.
The 2026 draft clock gives ten minutes in round 1, seven in round 2, five in rounds 3-6, and four in round 7.

Summary

Teams Target Round-2

Six teams lack first-round picks in the 2026 draft.
Bengals and Packers will target round 2, with the Bengals eyeing linebacker/safety CJ Allen and Jake Golday and Packers focusing on cornerbacks meeting speed standards.
Jacksonville, Denver and Atlanta will add round 2 depth, with Jacksonville targeting safety Treydan Stukes and pass-rusher AJ Haulcy, Denver likely selecting running back Jadarian Price, and Atlanta seeking a right-tackle after Kaleb McGary’s retirement.

History

Historical Context

The 1983 NFL Draft was significant for featuring future stars like John Elway and Jim Kelly, with a record 12 quarterbacks selected, tying with the 2024 draft. Elway was picked first overall by the Baltimore Colts. This emphasis on quarterback selection has shaped team success and league dynamics, highlighting the ongoing importance of this position in football history.

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Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) with the No. 1 overall pick on April 23, 2026.
Odds list Arvell Reese at –145 and David Bailey at +110 for the second slot, while ESPN analyst Peter Schrager’s final mock puts Bailey at No. 2 and Arizona Cardinals at No. 3 with Jeremiyah Love.
The 2026 draft clock gives ten minutes in round 1, seven in round 2, five in rounds 3-6, and four in round 7.

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