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Raiders Draft Heisman QB Mendoza, Sign Cousins to $172M

4/29/2026

46 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft.
They signed Kirk Cousins to a $172 million contract that works as a $20 million deal.
Maxx Crosby said he spoke with Mendoza on draft night and will mentor him.
Mendoza, the 2026 Heisman winner, threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns at Indiana.
The Raiders finished the season 3-14.

Summary

Mendoza Engages Fans

Mendoza dismissed compliments, saying he is back at the bottom of the totem pole.
After touring the Raiders complex, Mendoza briefly chatted with owner Mark Davis in the cafeteria.
He addressed more than 2,000 fans at the Festival of Football, high-fived supporters and knelt to give full attention to 8-year-old reporter Noelle, known as “DJ Cheese.”

History

Historical Context

When Jim Irsay hired Bill Polian and selected Peyton Manning with the first overall pick in the 1998 NFL draft, the Colts improved from a 3-13 season to a 13-3 record in 1999, sparking a franchise revival. The Raiders’ 2026 choice of Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza aims to repeat that rapid turnaround under owner Mark Davis and veteran Maxx Crosby.

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Raiders Draft Mendoza

The Las Vegas Raiders selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft.
They signed Kirk Cousins to a $172 million contract that works as a $20 million deal.
Maxx Crosby said he spoke with Mendoza on draft night and will mentor him.
Mendoza, the 2026 Heisman winner, threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns at Indiana.
The Raiders finished the season 3-14.

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