2026 NFL Draft: Raiders pick Mendoza, Jets pick Bailey
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- Las Vegas Raiders will select Fernando Mendoza, quarterback from Indiana, at No. 1, a historic Heisman‑national championship combo not seen since 1967.
- New York Jets target David Bailey, a Texas Tech edge rusher with 14.5 sacks in 2025, as their No. 2 pick to bolster a youthful pass rush.
- Arizona Cardinals are poised to take Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame’s RB who logged an FBS‑best 40 scrimmage touchdowns since 2024, at No. 3.
- Tennessee Titans eye Sonny Styles, Ohio State linebacker, as their No. 4 selection, preferring his versatility over fellow Buckeye Arvell Reese.
- Mel Kiper Jr. shares insider notes from executives, coaches and scouts, highlighting late‑round risers and confirming the high‑profile chatter around the top four picks.
Why it matters: The Las Vegas Raiders secure the first overall pick with quarterback Fernando Mendoza, giving them a marquee player who can boost ticket sales and sponsorship revenue, while rivals scramble to fill gaps.
