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2026 Draft: Raiders Grab QB Mendoza, Jets Eye DB Bailey

4/24/2026

Summary

Raiders Draft Mendoza

The 2026 NFL Draft opened Thursday night in Pittsburgh, with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 pick.
The New York Jets hold No. 2 and are projected to select Texas Tech edge defender David Bailey.
The Arizona Cardinals own No. 3 and are expected to take Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love while Ohio State is projected four first-round picks, including linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles.

Summary

Bears Eye McDonald

Bears likely to select Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald at No. 25 after earning the top PFF interior run-grade.
Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk is a No. 25 candidate with an 85.5 run-defense grade and positional versatility.
Utah left-tackle Caleb Lomu draws interest as an elite pass-protector (82.1 grade) despite a 62.0 run-grade.
Chicago entered draft day with four picks inside the top 89 and two second-round selections, adding trade-up flexibility.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NFL Draft took place on February 8, 1936, at Philadelphia's Ritz-Carlton Hotel, marking a pivotal moment in professional football. The Philadelphia Eagles selected Jay Berwanger, the first Heisman Trophy winner, as the first overall pick. This structured selection process has since evolved, significantly influencing team strategies and player careers, shaping the competitive landscape of the NFL over the decades.

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Raiders Draft Mendoza

The 2026 NFL Draft opened Thursday night in Pittsburgh, with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 pick.
The New York Jets hold No. 2 and are projected to select Texas Tech edge defender David Bailey.
The Arizona Cardinals own No. 3 and are expected to take Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love while Ohio State is projected four first-round picks, including linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles.

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