The Las Vegas Raiders seem reluctant to pick Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza with their No. 1 choose within the upcoming NFL Draft, regardless of him being the highest prospect after main his faculty workforce to a nationwide championship final season.
Raiders Prioritize Veteran Starter
Latest indications from the NFL Mix reveal that the Raiders desire to not begin a rookie quarterback in Week 1 of the 2026 season. This stance opens prospects for commerce discussions, though minority proprietor Tom Brady, who helps the workforce’s rebuild, has expressed admiration for Mendoza.
The Raiders completed the 2025 season with a 3-14 report within the AFC West, main to go coach Pete Carroll’s dismissal. Geno Smith, who has one yr left on his contract, struggled and drew fan backlash, together with an incident the place he gestured offensively after a loss. New head coach Klint Kubiak, previously the offensive coordinator for the Tremendous Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks, might decide to develop a drafted quarterback behind Smith.
Jets Sign Commerce Curiosity
The New York Jets, holding the No. 2 and No. 16 picks within the first spherical of the April 24 draft, present sturdy curiosity in buying the highest choice. Common Supervisor Darren Mougey hinted at this throughout current feedback, stating, “Completely, we’ll speak about all these issues, however I do not assume that is occurring.”
Each groups urgently want quarterback options, and the Jets might discover free company if a commerce fails. Different franchises may additionally pursue negotiations if the Raiders entertain affords.
