Raiders draft Fernando Mendoza first

The 2026 NFL Draft opened in Pittsburgh with the Las Vegas Raiders making Indiana's Fernando Mendoza the top selection, fulfilling months of speculation.

Mendoza's rise from a two-star recruit to the number one pick follows a historic collegiate season where he led the Hoosiers to a national title.

Raiders minority owner Tom Brady welcomed the young signal-caller, who celebrated the milestone with family at his home in Coral Gables.

The selection marks a pivotal moment for the Raiders as they attempt to erase a legacy of draft-day failures and return to postseason relevance.