Story perspectives

Raiders Draft Heisman QB Mendoza No. 1, Sign $55 M Deal.

4/24/2026

Summary

Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23, 2026.
Mendoza, a Heisman winner who threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in 2025, signed a four-year $54.56 million contract and will compete with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins for the Raiders’ starting quarterback job.
The selection ends the Raiders’ quarterback search after a 3-14 2025 season and a playoff drought since 2002.

History

Mendoza Makes History

Fernando Mendoza became the fourth quarterback since 1967 to win a Heisman, a national championship and be drafted No. 1 overall.
He transferred to Indiana after three seasons at California, joining brother Alberto on the title-run roster.
Mendoza stayed in Miami on draft night to be with his mother Elsa, who has multiple sclerosis.
Omar Cooper Jr. was taken No. 30 by the New York Jets, giving Indiana its first double first-round pick.

History

Historical Context

The Heisman Trophy, awarded annually since 1935, gained prominence with Gary Beban's 1967 win at UCLA, enhancing college football's visibility and financial prospects. This legacy continues as Fernando Mendoza, the fourth quarterback to win the Heisman and be drafted first overall, exemplifies the evolving significance of college football in American culture, reflecting its deepening ties to professional leagues.

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Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23, 2026.
Mendoza, a Heisman winner who threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in 2025, signed a four-year $54.56 million contract and will compete with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins for the Raiders’ starting quarterback job.
The selection ends the Raiders’ quarterback search after a 3-14 2025 season and a playoff drought since 2002.

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