Fernando Mendoza Already a Favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, a move widely anticipated and quickly confirmed. Analyst Ben Solak of ESPN has named Mendoza a favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year, citing his preparation and familiarity with the team's offensive system. Despite the Raiders' 3-14 record last season, Mendoza's potential impact could elevate the team and secure him the award.
- ▪The Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
- ▪ESPN analyst Ben Solak named Mendoza a favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year.
- ▪Mendoza does not need to start immediately, as the Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who stated the best player should play.
- ▪The Raiders finished the previous season with a 3-14 record, setting a low bar for offensive improvement.
- ▪Mendoza comes from an undefeated season with the Indiana Hoosiers, bringing a winning mentality to the team.
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By Anne EricksonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.In the least-surprising move of the 2026 NFL draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall pick.This move was so obvious that it came and went without a blink.Any team who lands the No. 1 pick in the draft has work to do, and the Raiders are in total burn-down-the-house, rebuild mode.Lucky for the Raiders, the Mendoza picks is already being praised.
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