Story perspectives

Trump: Heisman Pick Skips White House for Raiders Camp

5/12/2026

Summary

Trump Defends Mendoza

The White House hosted the Indiana Hoosiers on May 11, 2026.
President Donald Trump said Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, No. 1 2026 draft pick, was absent because he was at Las Vegas Raiders spring training, and called him a “winner” who will succeed in the NFL.
Mendoza told reporters on May 2 that organized team activities began on May 11, preventing him from missing practice.
The Raiders confirmed Mendoza attended their Henderson, Nevada minicamp on May 02, 2026.

Summary

Raiders Gear Up

Raiders owner Mark Davis said Mendoza’s arrival brings a different vibe and positions the franchise for growth.
The Raiders signed veteran Kirk Cousins, prompting analysts such as Nate Burleson to say the rookie may sit behind him.
Mendoza trains with former NFL quarterback Brian Griese to learn the West Coast offense and under-center snaps.
Raiders OTAs run May 18–June 4, with a mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 6–11.

History

Historical Context

When the NFL introduced its modern free-agency system on March 1, 1993, 471 players were eligible to move, ending the Plan B era and reshaping roster building. That shift created strategies of blending experience with youth, a pattern the Las Vegas Raiders are using in 2026 by pairing Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza with veteran Kirk Cousins.

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Trump Defends Mendoza

The White House hosted the Indiana Hoosiers on May 11, 2026.
President Donald Trump said Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, No. 1 2026 draft pick, was absent because he was at Las Vegas Raiders spring training, and called him a “winner” who will succeed in the NFL.
Mendoza told reporters on May 2 that organized team activities began on May 11, preventing him from missing practice.
The Raiders confirmed Mendoza attended their Henderson, Nevada minicamp on May 02, 2026.

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