Story perspectives

Raiders Grab Heisman QB; Chiefs Trade Up, Lions Pick Tackle

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders used the No. 1 overall pick to select Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
The Kansas City Chiefs traded their No. 9, third- and fifth-round picks to Cleveland, moved up and selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 6.
The Detroit Lions selected Clemson tackle Blake Miller at No. 17 to fill an offensive-line need.
The 2026 NFL Draft began Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh, and the pick clock was reduced to eight minutes.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NFL Draft on February 8, 1936, at Philadelphia's Ritz-Carlton Hotel transformed player recruitment by establishing a structured selection process. The Philadelphia Eagles selected Jay Berwanger, the first Heisman Trophy winner, but he never played in the NFL due to salary disputes. This draft set a precedent for future selections, highlighting the importance of player recruitment in shaping team dynamics and league competitiveness.

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Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders used the No. 1 overall pick to select Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
The Kansas City Chiefs traded their No. 9, third- and fifth-round picks to Cleveland, moved up and selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 6.
The Detroit Lions selected Clemson tackle Blake Miller at No. 17 to fill an offensive-line need.
The 2026 NFL Draft began Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh, and the pick clock was reduced to eight minutes.

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