Raiders Draft Mendoza, Rams Pick Simpson
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- Fernando Mendoza was selected No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL draft by the Las Vegas Raiders and fits Klint Kubiak’s offense due to his experience with versatile, multistep progressions and a 73.4% play‑action completion rate in 2025.
- Las Vegas Raiders signed center Tyler Linderbaum and aim to improve their rushing game after finishing last in rushing yards per attempt for two consecutive seasons, to support Mendoza’s transition.
- Mike Clay projects Mendoza to throw for 3,066 yards, 15 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and rush for 229 yards with two rushing touchdowns in his rookie season.
- Ty Simpson was taken No. 13 by the Los Angeles Rams and is expected to spend multiple seasons learning behind reigning NFL MVP Matthew Staf before becoming a starter.
- Los Angeles Rams plan to develop Simpson behind veteran quarterback Matthew Staf, leveraging his college experience in setting protections and pre‑snap adjustments.
Why it matters: Mendoza’s projected 3,066 passing yards give the Raiders a high‑volume passer, boosting their offensive output, while Simpson’s developmental path preserves the Rams’ veteran stability and future quarterback depth.
