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Raiders Draft Mendoza No. 1, Likely Bench Until Week 13

6/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders chose quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Pass-rusher Maxx Crosby, recovering from left-knee meniscus surgery, praised Mendoza’s work ethic and will mentor him.
Head coach Klint Kubiak and John Spytek said a rookie quarterback should begin on the bench.
Media speculation says Mendoza may not start until after the Raiders’ Week 13 bye in December because of a tough schedule.

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Story summary

The Las Vegas Raiders chose quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Pass-rusher Maxx Crosby, recovering from left-knee meniscus surgery, praised Mendoza’s work ethic and will mentor him.
Head coach Klint Kubiak and John Spytek said a rookie quarterback should begin on the bench.
Media speculation says Mendoza may not start until after the Raiders’ Week 13 bye in December because of a tough schedule.