Story perspectives

Raiders Snag 15-Year-Old Heisman Star Mendoza

6/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Raiders selected 15-year-old Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.
Mendoza began rookie training during organized team activities at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada.
Head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek said veteran Kirk Cousins will start the season while Mendoza learns behind him.
Defensive end Maxx Crosby called Mendoza a hard-working competitor with great energy at rookie minicamp.

History

Historical Context

After the Buffalo Bills, coming off a 1-12-1 season, used the 1969 first-overall pick to select Heisman Trophy winner O.J. Simpson and signed him to a $650,000 rookie contract—the league’s largest at the time, owner Ralph Wilson agreed—today’s Las Vegas Raiders’ first-overall choice of a prospect echoes that historic gamble on youthful talent.

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Story summary

The Raiders selected 15-year-old Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.
Mendoza began rookie training during organized team activities at the Intermountain Health Performance Center in Henderson, Nevada.
Head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek said veteran Kirk Cousins will start the season while Mendoza learns behind him.
Defensive end Maxx Crosby called Mendoza a hard-working competitor with great energy at rookie minicamp.

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