Raiders Pick QB Fernando Mendoza No. 1 2026 Mock Draft
SkimNews Take
When a mock draft surfaces based on league-meeting intel and brands its top pick a "done deal," the exercise stops being prediction and starts functioning as leaked organizational posture.
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- Las Vegas Raiders are projected to select Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a move seen as a franchise‑changing acquisition.
- New York Jets are expected to pick David Bailey, an edge rusher from Texas Tech, at No. 2 to address their 31st‑ranked sack total (26 sacks) from the previous season.
- Arizona Cardinals are slated to choose Arvell Reese, a linebacker/edge from Ohio State, at No. 3, aiming to improve a defense that allowed 28.7 points per game (29th) in 2025.
- Tennessee Titans are projected to take Jeremiyah Love, a running back from Notre Dame, at No. 4 after he posted 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns last season.
- New York Giants are predicted to select Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, at No. 5 to strengthen the line protecting their franchise quarterback.
- Cleveland Browns are expected to draft Spencer Fano, a versatile offensive lineman (OT/G) from Utah, at No. 6, reflecting a need for depth across the line.
- Washington Commanders are projected to pick Sonny Styles, a linebacker from Ohio State, at No. 7, targeting a defense that gave up 6.0 yards per play (third worst) last season.
Why it matters: The projected picks give each team a clear upgrade: the Raiders secure a franchise quarterback in Mendoza, the Jets add a proven pass‑rusher to fix a low‑sack ranking, the Cardinals shore up a porous defense with Reese, the Titans lock in a high‑volume RB in Love, while the Giants, Browns and Commanders address line or defensive gaps from last season.
