Fernando Mendoza, the 22‑year‑old Indiana quarterback, is poised to become the Raiders’ next franchise leader after declaring himself open for work earlier this year. With a 273‑of‑379 passing record, 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns in a perfect 16‑0 season, Mendoza earned College Football Player of the Year and a Heisman Trophy for the nation wide.

Raiders, who fired Pete Carroll after a single season and have yet to win a playoff game since 2002, will hand Mendoza the No. 1 pick—their first since 2007. With Tom Brady as minority owner, the new pairing of Klint Kubiak and Mendoza must rebuild a franchise drowning in uncertainty and recent losses and every season.

Mendoza’s résumé shows a blend of precision and toughness. He completed 273 of 379 throws, averaging 23.3 yards per attempt, and logged only six interceptions. Analysts compare his arm strength to Matt Ryan and his pocket presence to Joe Burrow, noting his ability to deliver from hash to sideline under pressure in every game he.

If the Raiders secure the top pick, Mendoza will inherit a team that has struggled for stability and direction. His leadership and playmaking could finally lift the silver‑and‑black from a decade of mediocrity. The 2026 draft will decide if the franchise can finally rebuild around a proven signal‑caller for the future of Las Vegas Raiders.